Examples can be found of websites—not simply “social media”—in India spreading speculation that what they call “lockdowns,” meaning energy rationing, is underway in the world’s largest country. One example is “DNA India,” which is apparently a site focused on sports and entertainment, but is not just social media, running a “lockdown may be under consideration” story on Monday morning, but also citing government assertions that this is not underway and not imminent.
The Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri, on March 30 “clarified that the rumors of a lockdown in India are completely false and there is no such proposal under consideration by the government. In a social media post, Mr. Puri noted that as the global situation remains in flux, the government is closely monitoring developments across energy, supply chains, and essential commodities on a real-time basis. He assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the uninterrupted availability of fuel, energy, and other critical supplies for the citizens, asserting that India is prepared to handle emerging challenges. He further added that the country has consistently demonstrated resilience in the face of global uncertainties and will continue to act in a timely, proactive, and coordinated manner. He urged everyone to remain calm, responsible, and united.”
