The Ministry said that if a significant number of people shift to gas or electricity from firewood and other commonly used cooking fuels due to inaccurate media publicity, it could place additional pressure on the energy sector.It noted that many people who use firewood may have no reason to abandon it, particularly those who have access to firewood and use it safely and properly.The matter was discussed during a special meeting between Dr. Chandani Withana, Director of Environmental and Occupational Health at the Health and Mass Media Minister, and Lakshmendra Damayantkumara Tennakoon, Senior Assistant Secretary (Information and Publicity) of the Ministry.Officials said that publishing information in a way that changes its original meaning, despite experts providing facts aimed at improving public health, could mislead the public.

They said the actual facts surrounding the issue should be clarified immediately and discussed the need to re-inform the public on the matter.The Ministry said the remaining relevant information would be officially released to the media.It also emphasized that all media and social media platforms have a responsibility to avoid distorting facts or presenting health-related information in a misleading manner.