A video purportedly showing Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik discussing a commission with a contractor has surfaced, prompting the politician to claim the footage is doctored. The clip, which has gone viral on social media, allegedly captures Sarnaik negotiating a percentage of a contract as a kickback.
Video Allegedly Shows Commission Discussion
The video, which is approximately two minutes long, appears to show Sarnaik speaking with a contractor about a commission for a project. In the footage, a man resembling Sarnaik is heard saying, "You will have to give me a commission of 10 percent." The contractor is then heard agreeing to the terms. However, the authenticity of the video has not been independently verified.
MLA's Response: Claims Video is Doctored
Reacting to the video, Sarnaik issued a statement denying any wrongdoing. He claimed that the video has been manipulated using artificial intelligence and deepfake technology. "This video is completely doctored and fake. It has been created with malicious intent to defame me and the Shiv Sena party," Sarnaik said. He added that he has filed a complaint with the cyber crime cell and requested a thorough investigation.
Political Reactions and Demands for Action
The video has sparked a political row, with opposition parties demanding a probe into the matter. The Maharashtra Congress has called for Sarnaik's immediate suspension from the party and a police investigation. "If the video is genuine, then the MLA should be arrested for corruption. If it is fake, then the police must find the culprits behind this forgery," said a Congress spokesperson. The ruling coalition, however, has stood by Sarnaik, with Shiv Sena leaders dismissing the video as a baseless attack.
Background on Pratap Sarnaik
Pratap Sarnaik is a Shiv Sena MLA from the Ovala-Majiwada constituency in Thane district. He has been a prominent figure in the party and has previously faced allegations of corruption, though he has always maintained his innocence. The latest controversy comes ahead of the upcoming municipal elections in Maharashtra, where the Shiv Sena is expected to face stiff competition from the opposition.
As the investigation into the video's authenticity continues, the incident highlights the growing concern over the use of deepfake technology in politics. Experts warn that such manipulated media could become a powerful tool for disinformation, especially during election campaigns.
