The controversy has sparked a fresh debate over media credibility, journalistic ethics, and the selection of sources for international reporting.

What Was the ‘Aaj Tak’ Claim?

During the prime-time show ‘Black and White’, anchor Anjana Om Kashyap cited a report by ‘Iran International’ to assert that international sanctions and a deep economic downturn have led to massive food shortages in Iran. The broadcast claimed that the situation had deteriorated to the point where common citizens were purchasing daily essentials, specifically roti, on EMI.

The Iranian Embassy’s Official Rebuttal

In an official statement released on June 11, the Iranian Embassy strongly pushed back against the broadcast. The key highlights of their statement include:

• Normal Supply of Essentials: The embassy clarified that despite facing the consequences of three wars and extensive international pressure, there is absolutely no shortage of essential commodities or basic necessities in Iran.
• Effective Governance: Under the leadership of President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, the procurement, supply, and distribution of essential goods continue in a normal, stable, and uninterrupted manner.
• Questioning ‘Iran International’: The embassy urged the respected Indian media to rely only on credible and verifiable sources. They explicitly called out ‘Iran International’, stating it is a media outlet affiliated with adversaries of the Iranian people and has a long, documented history of pushing biased, anti-Iranian political agendas.

The Economic Reality in Iran: A Look at the Data

While the embassy vehemently denied any shortage of essential goods, international reports suggest that Iran is indeed navigating significant economic headwinds and high inflation.

• According to official statistics from May, the country’s overall inflation rate stood at 77.2 percent.
• Food prices witnessed a staggering increase of 113 percent.
• International sanctions have placed immense pressure on the economy, with occasional reports of queues for essentials in specific regions like Malard.

However, the embassy maintains that coining the phrase ‘Roti on EMI’ is an extreme exaggeration and a deliberate attempt to present an insulting narrative.

Journalistic Integrity Questioned: Mohammed Zubair’s Reaction

The controversy also drew the attention of Alt News co-founder and fact-checker Mohammed Zubair, who took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to call out the news channel’s reporting standards.

Questioning the lack of a balanced narrative, Zubair tweeted:

“So @Iran_in_India Iran Embassy calls out claims aired by @anjanaomkashyap and @aajtak about the economic crisis in Iran. When an official embassy issues a direct rebuttal, shouldn’t viewers be told about the rebuttal or at least both sides of the story?”

So @Iran_in_India Iran Embassy calls out claims aired by @anjanaomkashyap and @aajtak about the economic crisis in Iran.
When an official embassy issues a direct rebuttal, shouldn't viewers be told about the rebuttal or atleast both sides of the story? pic.twitter.com/TIdGFVghXd

— Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) June 11, 2026

Conclusion

This incident underscores the critical importance of responsible international reporting and the necessity of using verifiable sources. While economic data confirms high inflation in Iran, sensational claims like ‘Roti on EMI’ have been officially debunked. Media watchdogs are now urging newsrooms to present official rebuttals to maintain transparency and viewer trust.

Disclaimer: This article is an independent news report based on official statements from the Iranian Embassy, publicly available economic data, and social media reactions. It has been prepared objectively for informational purposes. The assessment of any foreign nation’s internal economic situation should be based on verified data from recognized international agencies.

The post ‘Roti on EMI’ in Iran? Iranian Embassy Strongly Refutes Aaj Tak’s Claims, Fact-Checker Questions Media Ethics appeared first on Mission Ki Awaaz.