New Delhi, A new report has revealed that the Muslim community in India is the primary target of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation, as per an analysis of data from the last three years.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the analysis conducted by BOOM, a fact-checking portal, found that a significant portion of the false claims targeting Muslims were intended to spread “demographic anxiety.” The portal’s review of fact-checks for 2023 indicated that Islamophobic rhetoric in Indian politics and the growing hostility against Muslims in the country are reflected in these trends.

BOOM conducted 1,190 fact-checks between January 2, 2023, and December 31, 2023. Out of these, 15.4 percent, or 183 fact-checks, involved claims targeting Muslims. In comparison, 63 fact-checks related to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with many of these fake news items portraying him in a positive light.

The report also highlighted fake news related to political parties. Of the 70 fact-checks concerning false information about political parties, 33 were related to the BJP, followed by 21 about Congress, and eight concerning the Aam Aadmi Party.

BOOM, known for its commitment to combating misinformation and making the internet safer, is one of India’s first and leading fact-checking websites. As stated on its website, BOOM’s mission is to provide journalistically verified facts to its readers, contributing to a better-informed public.

This analysis sheds light on the concerning trend of targeted misinformation in India, particularly against the Muslim community, and highlights the crucial role of fact-checking in countering such narratives.