New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has filed a police complaint after an AI-generated deepfake video falsely attributed inflammatory remarks to him regarding the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests. Authorities have initiated legal proceedings, while the Centre has directed immediate action to curb the circulation of the manipulated content across digital platforms.
The fabricated video, which gained traction on social media, appeared to show the minister making provocative comments against CJP supporters. The clip quickly drew attention online before government fact-checking agencies confirmed that it had been digitally altered using artificial intelligence.
According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check, the viral video bears no resemblance to Goyal’s actual interaction with journalists outside Parliament. Officials stated that the footage had been manipulated to spread misinformation and create unrest amid the ongoing demonstrations linked to the alleged NEET examination paper leak.
In a statement shared on social media, Goyal condemned the circulation of the fake clip, describing it as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public through emerging technology. He confirmed that he had approached law enforcement, following which an FIR was registered at Delhi’s Chanakyapuri Police Station in the early hours of July 25.
The Union Minister asserted that strict legal measures would be pursued against every individual involved in producing, sharing, or amplifying the fabricated content. He stressed that the misuse of artificial intelligence to distort public discourse poses a serious challenge and should not be tolerated.
Calling on citizens to verify information through credible sources, Goyal expressed confidence that India’s digitally aware population, particularly young internet users, would not be influenced by such misleading material.
Government officials also indicated that instructions have been issued to social media platforms to remove the deepfake content at the earliest and prevent its further spread. Authorities are examining the origin of the video and the accounts responsible for circulating it.
The PIB further clarified that Goyal’s original remarks had focused on the government’s commitment to taking stringent action against those responsible for examination paper leaks. He had stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had directed strict legal action and supported the establishment of fast-track courts to ensure speedy prosecution of offenders.
The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over the misuse of AI-generated deepfakes in public discourse, with experts warning that such manipulated content can easily distort facts, damage reputations, and influence public opinion if left unchecked. Government agencies have reiterated that they will continue monitoring online misinformation and pursue legal action against those found responsible for creating or distributing deceptive digital content.
