Veteran lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar has issued a stern warning and threatened legal action against the creators and sharers of a fake AI-generated video that is being circulated on social media platforms. The manipulated content has drawn strong condemnation from the celebrated figure, who plans to involve the cyber police.
Akhtar's Strong Rebuttal and Legal Threat
Expressing his anger and disappointment, Akhtar took to social media platform X to call out the fabricated video. The clip features a computer-generated image of him wearing a traditional cap (topi) with a false claim about his personal beliefs. Javed Akhtar labeled the video "rubbish" and stated he is "seriously considering" reporting the matter to the cyber crime authorities.
He emphasized his intent to pursue legal recourse against both the originator of the fake news and those who forward it, holding them accountable for damaging his reputation and credibility. This incident underscores the escalating threat posed by artificial intelligence tools in creating convincing but entirely false narratives about public figures.
Celebrities Voice Alarm Over AI Misuse
The episode has amplified growing concerns within the Indian entertainment industry regarding the malicious use of AI and deepfake technology. Actor Bhagyashree recently reflected on this dangerous trend, noting how both celebrities and ordinary citizens are becoming targets.
She explained to ANI that AI can manipulate lip-syncs to make people appear to say things they never did. While acknowledging AI's positive uses in marketing, she highlighted the severe harm caused by such misuse. "It is very difficult to differentiate between right and wrong," Bhagyashree said, adding that even industry insiders struggle to detect sophisticated fakes, making it nearly impossible for the average person.
Call for Responsible Social Media Behavior
Actress Sreeleela also joined the chorus of concern, appealing directly to social media users to act responsibly. On Instagram, she urged people not to support AI-generated content that violates personal dignity.
"I put my hands together and request every social media user not to support AI-generated nonsense. There is a difference between using and abusing technology," Sreeleela wrote. She stressed that technological advancements should simplify life, not complicate it, and emphasized the importance of respect and safety for women across all professions.
Broader Push for Legal Protection
This is not an isolated case. The increasing prevalence of deepfakes and AI-manipulated content has prompted several top celebrities to seek stronger legal safeguards for their personality rights. Notable figures such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Nagarjuna, and Karan Johar have previously stepped forward to secure legal protection against such digital impersonation and misuse.
The collective response from the film fraternity signals a critical moment in the debate around digital ethics, privacy, and the need for robust legal frameworks to combat the non-consensual use of AI technology to tarnish reputations and spread misinformation.
