In a shocker, a Gujarat-origin student in Canada, who is also an influencer, found himself as the subject of misinformation and fake news.

Mehul Prajapati, from Ahmedabad, fell prey to reported anti-immigrant propaganda in Canada as he was allegedly targeted for posting a video on college-run food banks meant to aid the underprivileged.

Between Apr 14 and Apr 16, to create awareness amongst the Indian students residing in Canada, Prajapati posted a video on how to avail free groceries under the food bank programme run by the college.

However, on Apr 24, a Canada-based NGO named New Generation PPC posted a video of him and accused him of getting free groceries despite having a six-figure job at TD Bank.

Prajapati faced a backlash on social media with rumours, misinformation, hatred, and an anti-immigrant narrative.

The reality paints a different picture, however. It turns out that Prajapati was not working at TD Bank, but interned there  in December 2023. He is still pursuing his Master’s degree from Wilfrid Laurier University, where he is availing a legitimate food bank programme provided by the university.

In a telephonic conversation with Gujarat Samachar, Prajapati said, “There is a weekly food bank programme by the university for unprivileged families and students from where they can get a supply of   free groceries.”

“I was just trying to create awareness of these benefits  but here  I am projected  as a villain,” said Prajapati.

He added, “I am a student and took advantage of the scheme as a student of the university.”

Currently, Prajapati is not able to step out of his residence as people are flocking outside his home.

Many people in Canada are targeting and threatening him, he claims.

When Prajapati reached out to the university regarding this matter, they assured to help him. Currently, he is receiving telephonic mental health counselling from the university, as the traumatic experience has affected his mental health.

The police have also considered complaints regarding threats against him.

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