New Delhi: In the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, fake news are being spread across the border about the Indian Defence Forces to promote its propaganda after the Pahalgam terror attack. Recently, several pro-Pakistan social media accounts were claiming that Air Marshal Sujeet Pushpakar Dharkar was sacked for refusing to fight a war against Pakistan.
Notably, Air Marshal Dharkar recently retired as Vice Chief of Air Staff last month. The Indian government on Thursday debunked these claims by pro-Pakistan social media handles.
In an X post, the Press Information Bureau (PIB)'s Fact-Check unit, said, "Air Marshal SP Dharkar retired as Vice Chief of the Air Staff on 30 April 2025, on superannuation from the #IndianAirForce after completion of 40 years of service."
PIB Fact Check's X Post:
Notably, Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari is set to take charge as the new Vice Chief of the Air Staff on Friday, May 2, 2025. Air Marshal Tiwari is currently serving as the Air Officer commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Air Command.
Air Marshal Dharkar was given a guard of honour at the Air Headquarters, Vayu Bhawan, on the day when he superannuated. Air Marshal Dhankar was a fighter pilot. He assumed charge as Vice Chief of the Air Staff in October last year.
Notably, the government has banned the social media platforms of several Pakistani celebrities and organisations, including the Pakistan Army, Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif and former cricketer Shahid Afridi days after the Pahalgam terror attack, which was carried out on April 22. A total of 26 people, including a local pony guide.
India downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan after the attack. New Delhi announced a series of diplomatic sanctions against Islamabad, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty 1960.
