Will ATMs Be Closed for 2-3 Days? Here's What the Government Said

A message circulating on WhatsApp claimed that ATMs would be shut down for 2-3 days. However, the Indian government has confirmed that this news is fake. ATMs will continue to work normally, and people are advised not to forward or believe such unverified messages. Also Read: India Pakistan Conflict: Evidence of Pakistan's nefarious activities, attack captured in CCTV

Fake Messages Can Cause Panic

The government warned that such fake messages can lead to unnecessary panic. If people believe that ATMs are closing, they might rush to withdraw money, creating long lines at banks and ATMs. This can disturb the normal banking system.

PIB Fact-Checks Viral Claims

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has fact-checked this and many other fake news items that have recently gone viral. These fake posts are mostly being shared from Pakistan-based accounts and are meant to spread fear or confusion in India.

Examples of Fake Posts Busted by PIB

Between May 8 and May 9, PIB debunked at least eight viral videos and claims:

• A video showing a drone attack in Punjab’s Jalandhar was actually a farm fire.
• A fake claim that the “20 Raj Battalion” was hit in Pakistan's firing—no such Army unit exists.
• An old video of the Beirut blast was wrongly shared as Pakistan’s airstrike.
• A misleading video claimed a suicide attack in Rajouri, which was false.

Background: India-Pakistan Tensions Rise

These fake messages come amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan. After 26 civilians were killed in Jammu & Kashmir by Pakistan-backed terrorists, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror camps across the border. In return, Pakistan launched airstrikes and spread digital misinformation, which India has effectively countered. Also Read: Indian Forces Foil Two Drone Attacks on Jammu by Pakistan Within Hours