Social media has been flooded with a screenshot that claimed Deepika Padukone posted an Instagram story in support of the activists Sonam Wangchuk before deleting it. The image has been widely shared on X (formerly Twitter), Reddit and other platforms, leading many users to believe that the actor had spoken about Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike.The viral screenshot appears to show Deepika re-sharing a photograph of Wangchuk with the message, “He’s fasting. We’re commuting.” It also attributes the following words to the actor:“Why is nobody talking about this? We are living in the darkest hour of democracy.”He further claims that he added, “No matter how many movies are made to glorify a failed leader, the reality does not change.”The alleged post quickly sparked an online debate, with many believing the “Padmaavat” actor had supported 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 uploaded or deleted the alleged Instagram story.A review of the actor’s verified Instagram account, archived activity and reliable media reports 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 alive.Based on available evidence, the viral screenshot appears to be digitally manipulated, rendering the claim false.
There is no proof of a deleted Instagram story
The allegation that Deepika quietly deleted the post also remains unsubstantiated. Since there is no evidence that the story was ever published, there is nothing to indicate that it was later deleted.Users are encouraged to verify viral screenshots before sharing them, especially when they involve public figures and politically sensitive issues.
Sonam Wangchuk’s protest continues
Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk continues on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The activist continues his protest in support of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) agitation over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and other exam-related irregularities.As concerns for his health grow, several members of the film fraternity have publicly expressed their solidarity with Wangchuk. Celebrities like 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.Currently, there is no verified evidence linking Deepika Padukone to the viral Instagram story, and claims that she posted it and then deleted it are false.See more: Atul Kulkarni announces one-day hunger strike in support of Sonam Wangchuk, urges government to initiate dialogue: ‘Dard ka dard se rishta hona bohot zaroori hai’