PTI’s fact-checking team relies on PTI’s extensive network of reporters and stringers to identify claims with suspicious content or misinformation. The fact check team meets daily to select which claims to fact check. We always take an unbiased stance and are governed by following factors while choosing any claim to fact-check:

• Is this a fact or an opinion?
• Is the claim in public interest? Does it have the potential to sway the audience?
• Can the information potentially have harmful or dangerous consequences for the society?
• Is the information getting viral / gaining significant traction online across different platforms?

Our team constantly monitors all potential sources of misinformation ranging from statements by public figures (such as politicians and celebrities) to social media platforms (including Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp). We also consider claims submitted by the general public through the 'Contact Us' form on our website or email.

We conduct in-depth research to verify whether the claim was actually made and in what context. Our vast network of journalists, stringers and domain experts seek evidence to discover the reality behind the claim. We strive to triangulate the veracity of a claim through all potential sources including (but not limited to):

• Expert interviews across industries/ functions/ government and industry bodies
• Official press statements
• Databases (specialized and licensed sources)
• Official reports (company reports, government notices/ filings)
• Official social media handles

There is no compromise on the credibility and reliability of the source during the verification process. Once the evidence is established, the conclusion is arrived at and a final rating is given -- True, False, Misleading or Unverified.

All the fact checks are published on the PTI website and are also transmitted to our subscribers through the wire. Claims and conclusions are clearly stated in every fact-checking story. Facts and supporting evidence are presented in the report in a precise and transparent manner for readers to verify for themselves. We strive to make our reports easy to read with a clear path tracking of the conclusion. We absolutely refrain from making editorial comments and maintain a neutral and an unbiased stance in every story.

Given the dynamism of available information, we are always on the look-out for latest news and update the articles (if needed). We also encourage readers to share their feedback through 'Contact Us' tab on our website or Email.

The fact-checking team follows broader PTI correction policy. In case of an error, we promptly acknowledge and issue a correction. For updated/corrected stories, a disclaimer is appended to the original story with the details on the correction made/updated information.