Muzaffarpur, Bihar — In a case that highlights the emerging threats posed by artificial intelligence, the Muzaffarpur Police have arrested a man for allegedly creating and circulating AI-generated deepfake videos and audio clips of India’s President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The incident has prompted authorities to register a cybercrime case, with a special investigation team constituted to probe the matter.

According to a statement issued by the Office of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Muzaffarpur, information was received on January 2 regarding the circulation of digitally manipulated videos and audio clips on social media platforms. The content, created using artificial intelligence (AI) tools, reportedly misrepresented the words and actions of the President and Prime Minister. Police said the objective appeared to be to mislead the public, create confusion, and harm the dignity and credibility of India’s highest constitutional offices.

“The use of AI-generated content in this manner has the potential to misinform citizens, spread distrust in democratic institutions, and disturb public order,” the SSP’s office stated. Authorities also expressed concern that such material could be leveraged to incite anti-national sentiments or provoke rumours and social unrest.

Investigation and Arrest

Given the sensitivity of the case, a special investigation team (SIT) was immediately constituted under the direction of the SSP, Muzaffarpur, with Deputy Superintendent of Police (Cyber) heading the probe. The team conducted a detailed technical investigation, collecting digital evidence to trace the source and extent of the circulation of the AI-generated content.

Following the investigation, the accused was identified as Pramod Kumar Raj, son of Nagendra Sahni, a resident of Bhagwanpur Bochaha under the Bochaha police station limits. He was arrested in connection with the creation and dissemination of the deepfake material. During the arrest, police reportedly recovered a mobile phone allegedly used to generate and circulate the content.

A case has been registered at the Cyber Police Station, Muzaffarpur, under Case No. 01/26. Authorities have stated that further investigation is ongoing, including verification of the accused’s criminal antecedents and the extent of the social media networks through which the deepfake videos and audio clips were disseminated.

Implications of AI-Generated Deepfakes

The incident underscores the growing challenges posed by AI-generated synthetic media in India and globally. Deepfakes, which involve manipulating audio or video content to make it appear that someone said or did something they did not, can have far-reaching consequences. Experts note that such content can erode public trust, manipulate opinion, and even destabilize social harmony if used maliciously.

Police officials have warned citizens to remain vigilant against suspicious digital content and report instances of misinformation. They also highlighted that the use of technology to impersonate public figures, especially constitutional authorities like the President and Prime Minister, is a serious offence under the law.

Legal and Cybersecurity Response

The Muzaffarpur cyber police have invoked provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, in registering the case. Authorities emphasized that circulating AI-generated material that falsely represents public figures can be treated as a criminal offence, punishable with imprisonment and fines, particularly when it threatens national security, public order, or the integrity of democratic institutions.

This case also illustrates the increasing need for robust digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness among citizens. Law enforcement agencies are now working closely with cyber experts to identify similar cases across social media platforms and take swift action against the perpetrators.

Public Advisory

Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution when consuming or sharing content online. Citizens are advised to verify the authenticity of videos and audio clips from official sources before forwarding or posting them on social media. Police have stated that even unintentional sharing of manipulated content can have serious legal consequences.

Conclusion

The arrest of Pramod Kumar Raj marks a significant step in India’s efforts to combat the misuse of artificial intelligence for spreading misinformation. As AI tools become increasingly accessible, law enforcement agencies face the dual challenge of monitoring digital platforms and preventing the misuse of technology in ways that threaten public trust and the credibility of constitutional institutions.

Police in Muzaffarpur have reaffirmed their commitment to tracking down the sources of AI-generated disinformationand ensuring that individuals attempting to mislead the public or disturb social harmony are held accountable under the law. The case serves as a warning that advances in AI, while transformative, must be accompanied by responsible usage and strict legal oversight.