Meta India has come under fresh scrutiny after the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police registered cases linked to the circulation of allegedly AI-generated and morphed videos featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As part of the investigation, an FIR has also named Meta India head Arun Srinivas, along with several social media account operators. Authorities say the investigation is still in its early stages, and no findings of guilt have been made.
What Triggered the Case?
According to the police, several videos allegedly showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a manipulated or altered form were circulated on Facebook and Instagram. Investigators believe the videos were created using AI-based editing tools and were shared in a misleading context, raising concerns about misinformation.
Why Has Meta Been Named?
The Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police have registered the case against Meta India and certain social media users as part of their investigation into how the content was hosted and circulated on Meta-owned platforms. Police officials have indicated that notices are being prepared for the company while they examine whether applicable provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act may have been violated.
What Are Investigators Looking Into?
The investigation is focused on several key questions, including:
- Who created the AI-generated videos.
- How the videos spread across social media platforms.
- Whether platform moderation systems responded appropriately.
- The role of people who created, uploaded, or shared the manipulated content.
Officials are collecting digital evidence before deciding on any further legal action.
Meta Asked to Explain Its Content Moderation
The development comes shortly after government authorities sought an explanation from Meta regarding its systems for detecting and removing AI-generated fake content, scams, and manipulated videos. Meta has appeared before the authorities and explained its content moderation policies and has said it is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
What Are Morphed or AI-Generated Videos?
Morphed or AI-generated videos use artificial intelligence or digital editing tools to alter a person's face, voice, expressions, or actions. Such content can make it appear as though someone said or did something that never actually happened, which is why these videos are increasingly being scrutinised by law enforcement and technology companies.
Investigation Continues
At this stage, the FIR marks the beginning of the legal process rather than a conclusion. Police have stated that the probe is ongoing, and any further action will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation.
