PIB Debunks Viral Message On ‘Blood On Call’ Helpline 104 Scheme

The Press Information Bureau’s (PIB) Fact Check unit has clarified that a widely circulated message on WhatsApp regarding a nationwide blood delivery service through helpline number 104 is false and misleading.

The viral message, which claimed that citizens could call 104 to receive blood within hours for a fee, falsely attributed the initiative to the Government of India under a scheme titled ‘Blood on Call’.

Debunking the claim, PIB Fact Check stated on social media platform X, “This claim is #misleading. GOI is not running any such scheme !! This number is used for various helpline services in some states.”

A graphic of the false message was also posted with a red ‘MISLEADING’ label to alert the public.

PIB clarified that while helpline 104 may be used in some states for general health-related services, it is not part of any centralised government initiative related to blood supply or emergency delivery.

In a separate case of misinformation, the PIB addressed claims circulating on social media. The posts alleged that the official residence of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar had been sealed. They also claimed he was ordered to vacate it immediately.

The bureau called the reports ‘Fake’.

“It is being widely claimed on social media that Vice President’s official residence has been sealed and former VP has been asked to vacate his residence immediately. These claims are #Fake. Don’t fall for misinformation. Always verify news from official sources before sharing it,” PIB Fact Check posted on X.

The PIB once again urged the public to verify information from official channels before believing or sharing potentially misleading content.

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