The Delhi Police has put an end to the speculation surrounding a viral video of a “mysterious” animal spotted during the recent oath-taking ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The video, which showed a “cat-like” creature in the background as BJP MP Durga Das Uikey greeted President Droupadi Murmu after taking the oath as a minister, sparked widespread conjecture on social media.
Social media users and some media outlets speculated that the animal could be a leopard, given the high-security environment of Rashtrapati Bhavan, especially during an official ceremony. The sighting prompted concerns and curiosity about the presence of such an animal in one of India’s most secure complexes. However, the Delhi Police swiftly debunked these rumours. In an official statement posted on their social media handle, the police clarified, “Some media channels and social media handles are showing an animal image captured during the live telecast of the oath-taking ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday, claiming it to be a wild animal. These facts are not true. The animal captured on camera is a common house cat. Please don’t adhere to such frivolous rumours.”
This statement was intended to quell the rising speculation and ensure the public that there was no breach in security or presence of a wild animal within the presidential estate. A Delhi Police official, quoted by news agency PTI, reiterated that only dogs and domestic cats are found within the Rashtrapati Bhavan complex. Furthermore, an official from the Forest Department confirmed that there had been no prior reports of any leopard sightings in the area.
The incident highlights the rapid spread of misinformation through social media and the importance of quick, accurate communication from authorities to address public concerns. The police’s prompt clarification underscores their commitment to maintaining transparency and ensuring public trust.
The oath-taking ceremony, presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, saw 72 ministers sworn into office. While the event itself was a significant political milestone, the unexpected focus on the “mysterious” animal serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of live events and the vigilance required to manage public perception in the age of instant information sharing.
