As per a PTI report, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the utilization of artificial intelligence for generating deepfakes, cautioning that this practice could lead to a crisis. He emphasized the importance of increasing awareness about the misuse and impact of AI on education on November 17.
During the BJP’s “Diwali Milan” event at the New Delhi office, the Prime Minister called on the media to educate the public about the negative consequences of employing AI for disseminating harmful content, such as the manipulation of individuals in deepfakes. He underscored the escalating risks associated with such technologies.
Addressing the media, Modi disclosed instances of manipulated videos showing him participating in a fabricated garba event. He expressed concerns that deepfakes have the potential to incite significant problems and exacerbate societal unrest, exploiting the general trust placed in media within our diverse society.
In a statement posted on Twitter, the Prime Minister remarked, “I came across a video of myself engaging in garba, which was skillfully crafted. It would be beneficial to educate individuals through our programs on the intricacies of deepfakes and the functioning of Artificial Intelligence.” He highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that even well-intentioned individuals are sharing such content, emphasizing the severity of the issue. [Twitter post link: IbRPGU6hQr]
The recent “deepfakes” controversy gained prominence following the circulation of digitally altered videos featuring Bollywood actors, including actress Rashmika Mandanna, on various social media platforms.
In an advisory to social media companies, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology delineated the legal safeguards against deepfakes and the potential repercussions associated with their creation and dissemination.
Citing Section 66D of the Information Technology Act of 2000, which pertains to “punishment for cheating by personation using computer resources,” the government highlighted the stringent penalties for offenders, including fines of up to one crore rupees and imprisonment for a maximum of three years.
