New Delhi: In response to growing concerns surrounding the proliferation of ‘deepfake’ videos, the Indian government is gearing up for a crucial meeting with major social media platforms.
IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw asserted that the safe harbour immunity clause will not be applicable if platforms fail to take sufficient measures to combat the spread of deepfakes.
Vaishnaw disclosed that the government had recently issued notices to companies addressing the deepfake issue, while speaking to reporters recently. While acknowledging responses from the platforms, he emphasised the need for a more proactive stance in dealing with such content.
The minister announced an upcoming meeting with all social media platforms in the next 3-4 days, aimed at brainstorming solutions and ensuring robust efforts to prevent and remove deepfakes from their platforms.
When questioned about the inclusion of major platforms like Meta and Google in the meeting, Vaishnaw affirmed their participation.
He highlighted that the safe harbour clause, which grants immunity to social media platforms under the Information Technology (IT) Act, would not apply unless swift and decisive action is taken against deepfakes.
Deepfake videos, digitally manipulated content seldom created with malicious intent, have recently targeted prominent figures, sparking public outrage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently weighed in on the issue, cautioning that deepfakes generated by artificial intelligence could lead to crises and social discontent. He urged the media to raise awareness about the misuse of technology and educate the public.
The call for action comes in the wake of a viral deepfake video featuring actress Rashmika Mandanna’s morphed face, prompting renewed calls for regulatory measures.
The Centre issued an advisory to major social media companies last week, instructing them to identify and remove misinformation, deepfakes, and other rule-violating content within 36 hours of being reported.
Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar highlighted the significant impact of deepfakes on women, and called them a major violation.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) issued a second advisory within six months, calling for decisive actions against the spread of deepfakes.
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