What is the viral allegation?

Posts circulating online alleged that the White House unfollowed PM Modi, citing it as a recent and deliberate move. Adding fuel to the controversy, some suggested that India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to the U.S. was an attempt to secure an invitation for PM Modi to Trump’s swearing-in ceremony.

What is the reality?

Fact-checking reveals that these claims are misleading. The White House’s decision to unfollow PM Modi wasn’t recent but dates back to April 2020, nearly five years ago. At that time, the White House clarified that it only follows foreign leaders and accounts temporarily, particularly during official visits or diplomatic engagements.

In April 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the White House followed PM Modi after India supplied hydroxychloroquine to the U.S. as part of a diplomatic arrangement. However, on April 29, 2020, the White House unfollowed Modi and other India-related accounts, in line with its policy of limiting its follow list to U.S. officials and specific temporary connections.

The Inauguration Invitation: 

While speculation surrounds Modi’s absence from the guest list for Trump’s inauguration, no official confirmation has emerged. Experts suggest it’s typical for such events to feature limited international representation.

The claim that the White House recently unfollowed PM Modi is baseless and misrepresents an old event. Such misinformation underscores the importance of verifying viral social media narratives.