A digital media platform named 'Human Online', which was actively covering recent protests in the national capital, has landed in a major controversy following an open-source intelligence (OSINT) investigation. The row erupted after the platform's ground reporter went viral on social media, prompting netizens and investigators to dig deeper into the digital footprint and origins of the media outfit.
Startling Revelations from OSINT Probe
According to an investigation by India Today's OSINT team, significant discrepancies were found in the digital operations of Human Online. Facebook's Page Transparency data indicates that the pages are operated from Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, LinkedIn data shows that out of 16 listed employees, 14 are based in Pakistan.
The platform's registered headquarters have also shifted multiple times. While the current website lists offices in the US and Saudi Arabia, archival versions from 2024 listed Nagpur, India, as its base, which was subsequently changed to Dubai and then the US. Social media handles on X and Facebook have also seen multiple username and location alterations.
Content Discrepancies and Founder's Profile
The investigation also highlighted instances of controversial terminology, such as 'India-occupied Kashmir' and 'Azad Kashmir', used in the platform's regional coverage. While its YouTube channel focuses heavily on India-Pakistan dynamics, its website features a more diverse array of general news. The founder, Mohammad Jahangir, is reportedly a General Manager at 'ePage Global', a digital marketing firm with operations in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Hyderabad.
Platform Denies Allegations
In response, Human Online's global head, Namrata Surjoram, dismissed the allegations, asserting that the organization is a growing media platform with a diverse international team. She claimed that the viral screenshots circulating online were 'morped' to damage the organization's reputation. However, the platform did not directly address specific queries concerning its recruitment processes or alleged operational ties to Pakistan.
'The Freelance' does not independently verify the authenticity of claims made in viral social media videos. This story is based on reports regarding a widely discussed digital media platform. Video Credits: Respective Social Media Handles / Creators.
National Desk, The Freelance
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The Freelance National Desk provides round-the-clock, verified, and in-depth analytical reporting on Indian politics, governance, policy decisions, parliamentary affairs, and public interest matters. We are committed to unbiased, factual journalism based on verified agencies, official statements, and on-the-ground correspondents.