Bengaluru: Claims circulating on social media about a “free sewing machine kit” scheme for women in Karnataka have been found to be false and misleading, raising concerns among officials and the public. The viral posts, often linked to Karnataka minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar, promise free tailoring machines and encourage women to register through shared online links.
The messages, widely spread via WhatsApp groups and Facebook pages, claim that the initiative is part of a government effort to promote women’s self-employment. However, fact-check investigations confirm that no such scheme has been officially announced or approved by the Karnataka government.
False Claims Using Political Name
Experts point out that the use of Lakshmi Hebbalkar’s name in these messages is likely intended to create credibility and attract more applicants. While the minister is known for supporting women-centric programs, there is no verified connection between her and the viral sewing machine scheme.
Lack of Official Evidence
A key issue highlighted in the report is the complete absence of official proof. No government website, press release, or trusted news source has reported this scheme. Genuine welfare programs are typically announced through authorized portals and government channels, which is not the case here.
Suspicious Application Process
The viral posts direct users to unverified websites that ask for personal details such as Aadhaar numbers, mobile numbers, and bank account information. Some links also mention limited slots or deadlines, creating urgency and pushing people to apply quickly without checking authenticity.
Cybersecurity experts warn that such tactics are commonly used in online scams to collect sensitive data or trick users into making payments under the guise of registration fees.
Public at Risk
People who engage with these fake links may face risks including:
- Identity theft
- Financial fraud
- Unauthorized access to personal data
Authorities stress that legitimate government schemes do not ask for sensitive details through unofficial links or random social media posts.
Why People Are Falling for It
The concept of receiving a free sewing machine appeals strongly to economically disadvantaged women and those interested in starting home-based tailoring work. This emotional appeal, combined with rapid social media sharing, has allowed the misinformation to spread quickly.
Advisory to Citizens
The public is advised to remain cautious and verify any such claims through:
- Official government websites (.gov.in)
- Verified news platforms
- Local government offices
Avoid clicking on unknown links or sharing personal information without proper verification.
Reality Check
While the viral claim is false, the government does run legitimate welfare and skill development schemes for women. Citizens are encouraged to explore these through official sources instead of relying on unverified social media messages.
The so-called “free sewing machine kit” scheme linked to Lakshmi Hebbalkar is not genuine. Authorities urge people to stay alert, avoid misinformation, and help spread awareness to prevent others from falling victim to such misleading claims.
