The Delhi government has stepped in to curb the spread of what it calls a dangerous and misleading narrative after viral posts claimed that school teachers were instructed to count stray dogs across the city.
The Directorate of Education (DoE) has now filed a formal complaint with the Delhi Police, seeking action against individuals and social media accounts accused of spreading false information and impersonating teachers online.
False Claims Spark Panic Among Teachers and Parents
The controversy erupted after several social media videos and posts began circulating, suggesting that Delhi’s school teachers had been officially assigned the task of counting stray dogs as part of a government order.
These claims quickly triggered confusion, frustration, and anxiety among teachers, parents, and the public. Addressing the issue at a press conference, DoE Director Veditha Reddy made it clear that the story being circulated was entirely fabricated. She stated that no such instruction, circular, or policy had ever been issued by the department.
“Teachers Were Never Asked to Count Dogs,” Says DoE
Calling the claims “false, fabricated, and baseless,” Reddy said teachers are engaged solely in academic and educational responsibilities, not civic surveys or animal counting.
She warned that the viral misinformation was not only misleading the public but also damaging the dignity and morale of teachers who already work under pressure. The DoE believes the narrative was deliberately created to provoke outrage and undermine the credibility of the education system.
Social Media Impersonation Raises Serious Concerns
One of the most alarming aspects of the controversy is that some people were seen posing as teachers in videos while counting dogs to give legitimacy to the fake claim.
According to the DoE, this impersonation and coordinated online activity created panic in schools and among parents, many of whom began questioning whether teachers were being diverted from their core duties. Officials said digital evidence, including posts, videos, and timelines, has been collected and preserved for investigation.
Police Complaint Filed, Legal Action Underway
The Delhi government has formally approached the Delhi Police, accusing those behind the posts of spreading misinformation, impersonation, defamation, and misuse of social media.
The DoE stated that the alleged actions fall under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including laws related to defamation of public authorities and creating public fear or mischief. Authorities have also shared a list of social media handles believed to be responsible for amplifying the false narrative.
Delhi Govt Says Teachers’ Dignity and Student Safety Come First
Delhi officials stressed that the dignity of teachers and the safety of students cannot be compromised by viral misinformation. They warned that spreading fake news to provoke fear and confusion will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against those responsible. The government hopes the move will discourage the misuse of digital platforms to distort facts and manipulate public opinion.