28 July,2026 01:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shilpa Shetty (Pic via X)
Actor Shilpa Shetty has strongly denied a viral social media post that falsely attributed controversial remarks on India's reservation system to her. Calling the claims "completely fabricated" and "malicious garbage," the actor clarified that she never made the statements circulating online and urged people not to believe fake content shared in her name.
The controversy erupted after a screenshot, purportedly from Shilpa's Instagram account, began circulating across social media platforms. The alleged post claimed that reservation could not create skill and suggested that patients should be treated only by doctors from their own caste. As the screenshot gained traction online, many users assumed it had been shared by the actor.
Breaking her silence, Shilpa took to X (formerly Twitter) to categorically deny any association with the viral message.
"I am shocked to see fake statements on reservation falsely attached to my name. This is completely fabricated, malicious garbage," she wrote.
The actor further made it clear that she has never issued any such statement and condemned those responsible for spreading misinformation using her identity.
"Do not fall for this fake news," she added, urging people not to fall for fabricated posts being shared on social media.
Shilpa's clarification comes amid growing concerns over manipulated screenshots and misinformation targeting public figures online. The viral image sparked widespread debate before the actor addressed the matter herself, putting the rumours to rest.
The incident has once again highlighted the ease with which edited screenshots and false claims can spread across social media platforms, often misleading users before an official clarification is issued. In recent years, several celebrities have found themselves battling fake quotes, morphed images and fabricated social media posts falsely attributed to them.
Following Shilpa's statement, many fans rallied behind the actor, praising her for responding swiftly and urging social media users to verify information before sharing it. Several also called for stricter action against those responsible for creating fake posts designed to spark controversy and damage reputations.
On the professional front, Shilpa was last seen on television as the host of a cooking-based reality show and continues to remain active across films, OTT projects and brand endorsements. While the fabricated post briefly stirred online debate, her prompt clarification has helped dispel the misinformation and reaffirm that the viral statement had no connection to her.
