Social media has been flooded with a screenshot claiming Deepika Padukone posted an Instagram Story in support of activist Sonam Wangchuk before deleting it. The image has been widely circulated on X (formerly Twitter), Reddit and other platforms, leading many users to believe the actor had spoken out about Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike.The viral screenshot appears to show Deepika re-sharing a photograph of Wangchuk carrying the message, “He is fasting. We are scrolling.” It also attributes the following words to the actor:“Why is no one speaking about this? We are living through the darkest hour of democracy.”It further claims she added, “No matter how many films are made to glorify a failed leader, the reality remains unchanged.”The alleged post quickly triggered online debate, with many believing the ‘Padmaavat’ actor had voiced support for Wangchuk before deleting the Story.
What the verification shows
According to Mid-Day, a closer examination, however, tells a different story. There is no credible evidence that Deepika Padukone ever uploaded or deleted the alleged Instagram Story.A review of the actor’s verified Instagram account, archived activity and reports from reliable news outlets reveals no record of such a post. No screenshots from verified sources, media reports or digital archives support the claim that the Story was ever live.Based on the available evidence, the viral screenshot appears to be digitally manipulated, making the claim false.
No proof of a deleted Instagram Story
The allegation that Deepika quietly removed the post also remains unsubstantiated. Since there is no evidence that the Story was ever published, there is nothing to indicate it was later deleted.Users are advised to verify viral screenshots before sharing them, particularly when they involve public figures and politically sensitive issues.
Sonam Wangchuk’s protest continues
Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk remains on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The activist is continuing his protest in support of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) agitation over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and other examination-related irregularities.As concerns over his health grow, several members of the film fraternity have publicly expressed solidarity with Wangchuk. Celebrities including Swara Bhasker, Kaka, Shabana Azmi, Soni Razdan, Zeenat Aman, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Abhay Deol, Omi Vaidya, Anurag Kashyap and Munawar Faruqui have extended support and urged the government to engage in dialogue with the activist.At present, there is no verified evidence linking Deepika Padukone to the viral Instagram Story, and claims that she posted and later deleted it are false.
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