BENGALURU: Following India’s cross-border strike under Operation Sindoor, ‘panic buying’ broke out in far-off Bengaluru with residents seen rushing to grocery stores, petrol bunks and medical shops, fearing possible supply disruptions.
The panic is believed to be sparked by a viral message circulating on social media, which claimed that citizens should urgently stock up on essentials. The list advised multiple things, including keeping Rs 50,000 in cash, medicines for two months, fully fueled vehicles, and even emergency contacts backed up. The message created confusion and alarm among the public, leading to crowded stores and high demand even at online grocery apps.
However, activists and authorities concerned urged calm ensuring that there is no need for panic. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) later issued a clarification on Wednesday stating that the advisory was fake and requested people not to believe or forward unverified information.
Apart from ATMs and grocery stores, even online apps witnessed a sudden surge in orders on Wednesday morning, with several apps either rescheduling deliveries, displaying alerts about high demand -- ‘expect delayed deliveries’, or temporarily shutting the outlets. Many users also reported limited availability of essentials, as the platforms struggled to keep up the unexpected spike.
“This is a time to stay calm and avoid spreading panic. People should be mindful about forwarding messages, especially during sensitive situations when a flood of unverified information tends to circulate,” Vinay Srinivas, lawyer and rights activist, said, stressing that often, such messages are taken at face value and shared widely, creating unnecessary fear.
“It’s important to rely only on official and verified sources for updates, as the government will issue timely information if needed. Panic buying or hoarding essentials like medicines and groceries not only fuels anxiety but can also lead to shortages for those who genuinely need them,” he added.
Speaking to TNIE, City Police Commissioner B Dayananda said, “We urge citizens not to believe in or circulate unverified messages. There is no reason for panic, and all essential services will continue to function as usual. The police are closely monitoring the situation with higher authorities, and strict action will be taken against those spreading false information,” the senior official said, requesting the public to rely only on official sources for updates.