Deepfake row: Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar stresses social media responsibility for safe internet, free of deepfakes

Deepfake row: Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar recently emphasized the imperative for social media platforms to ensure a secure online environment, particularly in light of the escalating concerns around AI-generated deepfake content. The government's advisory to all social media entities comes on the heels of a viral deepfake video featuring actress Rashmika Mandanna, raising alarms about the risks associated with morphed AI videos in India.

Addressing this critical issue, the central government convened a meeting with various social media platforms active in the country. During the meeting held on November 24, discussions revolved around the prevailing legislation concerning deepfakes and the proliferation of such content across social media networks.

Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar highlighted that social media platforms bear the responsibility of ensuring internet safety and curtailing the circulation of deepfakes, aligning their content regulations with Indian laws. Chandrasekhar emphasized during a conversation with PTI that the onus lies on these platforms to maintain a safe online space, explicitly warning of measures such as revoking safe harbor protections and enabling platform prosecution if adequate steps aren't taken to eradicate deepfake content.

Moreover, the government had previously announced plans to appoint a designated officer to investigate deepfake-related concerns on social media and online platforms. This official would assist citizens in filing complaints regarding fabricated or manipulated content circulating online.

The genesis of this discourse on deepfakes emerged when a fabricated video featuring Rashmika Mandanna surfaced online, depicting her in an altered scenario within an elevator, clad in a tight black outfit. The video's circulation triggered widespread consternation within the entertainment industry, prompting swift action by authorities to identify the origins of the deepfake. Central agencies intervened, directing online platforms to mitigate the proliferation of such deceptive content.

This incident has underscored the urgent need for stringent measures to counter the threat of deepfake content on social media, prompting the government to engage with platforms and instigate proactive steps to prevent and address the spread of manipulated videos.

- With inputs from agencies

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