AI-generated deepfake video of Piyush Goyal leads to FIR

New Delhi: Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday alleged that his remarks to the media outside Parliament had been "maliciously doctored" using artificial intelligence (AI) to create and circulate a deepfake video, and said an FIR has been registered in the matter.

In a post on X, Goyal said he had filed a police complaint and that an FIR was registered at Chanakyapuri Police Station at 4:35 am on July 25.

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"My remarks to the media outside Parliament have been maliciously doctored using AI to create and circulate a deepfake video in an attempt to spread misinformation," Goyal said in the post.

He said strict legal action would be taken against everyone involved in creating, circulating or amplifying the alleged fake video.

"The irresponsible misuse of artificial intelligence to mislead the public cannot and will not be tolerated," the Union Minister said.

Goyal also urged people to rely only on verified and authentic sources for information.

"I have complete faith that India's aware and tech-savvy citizens, especially our youth, will not fall prey to such misinformation," he added.

The government also yesterday debunked a video circulating on social media that claimed Goyal made threatening remarks about students protesting in Delhi.

Meanwhile, Goyal on Friday said that social activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his fast after receiving assurances from the government, noting that the decision reflects Wangchuk's trust in the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's commitment to the nation's youth.

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The Minister informed that BJP National President JP Nadda and Union Minister Jitendra Singh met Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram to address his concerns.

Goyal posted on X, "Sonam Wangchuk ji has ended his fast after my colleagues, Shri @JPNadda ji and Shri @DrJitendraSingh ji met him at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, and assured him of the government's commitment to address the concerns. Wangchuk ji's decision to end his fast reflects his trust in the Modi government's commitment to students' interests."

The Union Minister further emphasised the government's unwavering resolve to reform the examination system and protect the future of students.

"The government has time and again reiterated its resolve to act firmly against paper leaks and strengthen examination reforms. The interests of the nation's youth remain a top priority for the government," Goyal added in his post.