New Delhi: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has lodged a police complaint after a manipulated video, allegedly created using artificial intelligence, surfaced on social media showing him making inflammatory remarks about the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). Authorities have since initiated legal action, while the Central government has directed the removal of the misleading content from online platforms.
The video, which quickly gained traction across social media, falsely portrayed the minister making controversial statements targeting CJP supporters. Goyal dismissed the clip as entirely fabricated, stating that his original comments made outside Parliament had been digitally altered through AI technology to spread misinformation.
In a statement shared on social media, the minister confirmed that an FIR had been registered at Delhi’s Chanakyapuri Police Station in connection with the incident. He warned that those responsible for creating, circulating, or promoting the manipulated video would face stringent legal consequences.
Calling the misuse of artificial intelligence a serious threat, Goyal said such technology should not be exploited to deceive the public or disturb social harmony. He also urged citizens to verify information through credible and official sources before sharing it online.
The Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit also examined the viral clip and concluded that it was a deepfake. According to the agency, the video had been digitally manipulated and circulated through accounts allegedly linked to coordinated propaganda campaigns, with the objective of creating confusion and fuelling tensions during the ongoing student protests in Delhi.
PIB clarified that Goyal’s actual media interaction outside Parliament focused on the government’s response to examination paper leak cases. During his original remarks, the minister reiterated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had instructed authorities to take strict action against those involved in such crimes and announced plans for fast-track courts to ensure speedy trials.
Officials have advised the public to remain cautious about AI-generated content and refrain from forwarding unverified videos. Investigators are now examining the origin of the deepfake and tracking those involved in its production and dissemination as part of the ongoing probe.
