The Delhi High Court has called for the government's response to a public interest litigation addressing concerns about the unregulated use of artificial intelligence and deepfakes. Deepfakes, generated through AI-powered deep learning software, manipulate videos or images to depict individuals engaging in actions they never did or uttering statements they never made, as reported by PTI.
A bench led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan acknowledged the complexity of the issue, stating that technology cannot be easily controlled. The court emphasized the need for government deliberation due to the intricate nature of the problem. While recognizing the positive applications of the technology, the bench remarked that only the government, with its extensive resources, can effectively address the matter.
The central government counsel assured that the government is actively examining the issue, citing existing regulations and the acknowledgment of its seriousness by the concerned ministry. The petitioner, represented by advocate Manohar Lal, expressed concern about the slow pace of legal development compared to rapid technological advancements. The court acknowledged this lag and scheduled further hearings for January 8.
Chaitanya Rohilla, the petitioner and a lawyer, urged the court to direct the Centre to identify and block websites offering access to deepfakes, advocating for the regulation of artificial intelligence to safeguard citizens' fundamental rights. Highlighting recent instances of deepfake misuse, the lawyer stressed the challenges posed by unregulated AI and the necessity to address the regulatory vacuum.
In a notable incident, actor Rashmika Mandanna fell victim to a deepfake video, wherein her face was superimposed onto another person's body.
