Key Points

The PIB Fact Check has dismissed claims about a national "Blood on Call" service via helpline 104. The viral WhatsApp message falsely promised blood delivery for a fee. PIB clarified that 104 is used for state health services, not central schemes. Users are urged to verify news from official sources before sharing.

Key Points: PIB Debunks Viral Blood on Call Helpline 104 Claim

  • PIB denies 104 as national blood helpline
  • Viral WhatsApp message falsely promises paid blood delivery
  • Number 104 used for state health services only
  • PIB warns against sharing unverified social media claims
2 min read

PIB Fact Check debunks claim on pan-India 'Blood on Call' helpline number 104

PIB Fact Check confirms no pan-India "Blood on Call" service via 104, warns against misleading WhatsApp forwards.

"This claim is #misleading, GOI is not running any such scheme!! – PIB Fact Check"

New Delhi, July 29

The PIB Fact Check has debunked a claim circulating on WhatsApp about a pan-India helpline number 104 titled "Blood on Call" for blood requirements.

According to the PIB, this claim is misleading, and the Government of India is not running any such scheme.

The viral message, shared across multiple social media platforms and messaging apps, claimed that citizens could now dial 104 to request blood, which would be delivered within hours for a specified charge.

Dismissing these claims, PIB Fact Check in a post on X said, "This claim is #misleading, GOI is not running any such scheme!! This number is used for various helpline services in some states."

https://x.com/PIBFactCheck/status/1949798485336723479

PIB also attached a graphic of the viral message with a red "MISLEADING" stamp to prevent the spread of disinformation.

According to PIB Fact Check, while the number 104 may be active in some states for general health-related services, it is not associated with a central government initiative for blood supply.

Meanwhile, on July 24, the PIB debunked any claims circulating on social media regarding the sealing of the official residence of former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, saying that the former VP has not been asked to vacate his residence immediately.

"It is being widely claimed on social media that Vice President's official residence has been sealed and former VP has been asked to vacate his residence immediately. These claims are Fake. Don't fall for misinformation. Always verify news from official sources before sharing it," the PIB fact check said on X.

The post by PIB fact check urged the people "not to fall for misinformation" and always verify news from official sources.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
While I appreciate PIB's fact-checking, why doesn't the government actually create such a useful service nationwide? Blood donation coordination is badly needed in many states.
A
Aman W
My cousin forwarded this message yesterday saying "forward to all groups". Now I'll have to tell him it's fake. These forwards create unnecessary panic yaar!
P
Priyanka N
In Maharashtra, 104 is actually a health helpline number. People should check their state's official health department websites for correct information instead of believing forwards.
V
Vikram M
The idea of a national blood helpline is actually good. Maybe the government should consider implementing it officially rather than just debunking fake claims.
K
Kavya N
I wish PIB Fact Check would also explain why these fake messages originate in the first place. Who benefits from spreading such misinformation? 🤔

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