The Ministry of Electronics and IT is standing firm on its decision to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) and has urged social media platforms to proactively remove deepfakes ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.
In an advisory issued to platforms like X and Meta, the ministry emphasized the need to exercise caution when offering AI products to prevent the spread of inaccurate information or misleading content. The advisory highlighted that deepfakes, which involve the manipulation of a person’s appearance using AI techniques, can lead to misrepresentation and pose a significant threat to society.
The ministry’s move comes in response to concerns about the misuse of deepfakes and misinformation on social media platforms, especially during political events like elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed worries about the potential chaos that deepfakes could cause in Indian society.
With the Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, there is a growing apprehension about malicious actors circulating deepfakes to influence public opinion or tarnish the reputation of political figures. To address this challenge, the ministry has directed intermediaries to comply with the IT Rules 2021 and ensure the prompt removal of deepfakes from their platforms.
As the technology behind deepfakes continues to evolve, the need for responsible AI use becomes more critical. The absence of a global regulatory framework for deepfakes underscores the importance of proactive measures by governments and tech companies to combat this emerging threat.
By issuing advisories and guidelines, the Ministry of Electronics and IT aims to safeguard the integrity of online information and protect users from the harmful effects of deepfakes. As we move closer to the Lok Sabha polls, the focus on combating misinformation and ensuring a fair electoral process remains a top priority for policymakers and stakeholders in India.
