Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern about the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) for generating deepfake videos, including instances featuring him. During a BJP Diwali event, he disclosed that he had urged the ChatGPT team to identify and flag deepfakes, emphasizing the need for responsible technology use. PM Modi highlighted an example of a deepfake video showing him participating in the Garba dance, a festival tradition in Gujarat. He called on the media to educate the public about such deceptive videos and stressed the importance of responsible AI usage in the era of technology.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come amidst growing apprehension over deepfake videos circulating on social media, targeting celebrities like Rashmika Mandanna, Katrina Kaif, and Kajol. The potential consequences of such manipulated content, especially for public figures, have raised concerns, prompting calls for legal action by figures like Amitabh Bachchan. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology issued an advisory to social media platforms, outlining legal provisions and penalties for deepfake creation and dissemination.
Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized the legal obligation of online platforms to curb misinformation, urging swift action within the stipulated timeframes. The government is committed to ensuring safety and trust in the digital space, with penalties for deepfake-related offenses including a $1,208.16 fine and three years of imprisonment.