BJD files deepfake FIR over AI video targeting Naveen Patnaik
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday, 10 July lodged a police complaint in Bhubaneswar, alleging that an AI-generated deepfake video targeting party president and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik was deliberately circulated on social media to damage his reputation. Leaders of the party's student wing filed a formal First Information Report (FIR) at the Capital Police Station, demanding swift legal action against those responsible.
What the Complaint Alleges
According to the FIR, the video was uploaded on 9 July through an Instagram page named 'socialtalk111', allegedly operated by a person identified as Preeti Prakash Nayak. The BJD contends that the video contained AI-generated deepfake content, abusive language, and defamatory remarks directed at both Naveen Patnaik and former 5T Chairman V.K. Pandian.
The party further alleged that the video mocked Pandian's visit to the earthquake-affected region of Venezuela, and that its contents were crafted to mislead the public and erode confidence in the party's leadership.
Accused's Alleged Prior Record
The BJD claimed that Preeti Prakash Nayak had previously faced departmental proceedings in connection with a defamation case registered as Case No. 146/2023, and had reportedly engaged in repeated posting of objectionable content on social media. The party alleged that the accused habitually acts in support of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and that the BJP was encouraging such activities at a time when the state government was facing criticism over its governance record.
BJD Invokes CM Deepfake Precedent
Notably, the BJD drew a pointed parallel with the recent arrest of an individual for allegedly creating and circulating an AI-generated deepfake video of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The party demanded equally immediate and stringent action in the present case, asserting that the law must apply uniformly regardless of political affiliation.
Key Demands Before Police
The Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD), the student wing that filed the FIR, urged police to register a formal case against the accused, seize and forensically examine his Instagram account, and secure the removal of the alleged deepfake video from all social media platforms. The party also called on authorities to identify and act against every individual or account involved in creating, sharing, or circulating the content. This comes amid a broader national debate over the regulation of AI-generated content and its misuse in political contexts.