Patna High Court Delivers Stern Warning: Meta Must Remove Deepfake PM Modi Video in 48 Hours Amid Election Fears

In a significant and urgent ruling, the Patna High Court has issued a strict 48-hour ultimatum to social media giant Meta, demanding the immediate removal of an artificial intelligence (AI) generated video featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The controversial video, widely circulated on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, has ignited serious concerns regarding its potential to mislead voters during the crucial Bihar elections.

The court's unequivocal directive came during a hearing on a petition filed by Advocate Ranjeet Kumar.

Kumar's petition highlighted the deceptive nature of the AI-generated content, which allegedly depicts PM Modi making false and alluring promises of distributing money to voters. The petitioner argued that such manipulated content is a blatant attempt to mislead the electorate, potentially swaying public opinion and undermining the integrity of the democratic process, especially with elections on the horizon.

Meta, represented by its counsel, initially attempted to downplay the severity of the video, claiming it was not a deepfake but rather a manipulated original video.

The company's legal team also requested additional time to address the issue. However, the High Court bench, recognizing the gravity of the situation and the imminent threat of misinformation during election periods, firmly rejected Meta's plea for an extension. The court reiterated that the video's nature, whether a deepfake or a manipulated clip, was secondary to its potential for deception and the urgent need for its removal.

Justice Sandeep Kumar, presiding over the case, underscored the critical importance of swift action, emphasizing that any delay could have severe repercussions on the electoral landscape.

The court's ruling sets a clear precedent for social media platforms to take proactive and immediate steps against the proliferation of misleading and fake content, particularly when it involves political figures and electoral processes. This judicial intervention highlights the growing global concern over the weaponization of AI and deepfake technology to spread misinformation, posing a significant challenge to the fairness and transparency of elections worldwide.

The Patna High Court's stern warning to Meta serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities that digital platforms bear in combating the spread of potentially damaging content.

As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Meta to see how it complies with this crucial judicial order, ensuring that the digital space remains a reliable source of information and not a breeding ground for electoral manipulation.