A suspected AI-generated deepfake video targeting former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel has triggered a political storm in Durg district, prompting police to register a First Information Report (FIR) and write to Instagram for account details. Authorities have also begun tracing those who created and circulated the clip.
Police action and allegations
Police said the video was allegedly shared from Instagram handles named "congresspolkhol" and "randomchhattisgarh." Congress leaders alleged that the "objectionable" content was "fake, defamatory and deliberately created" to malign Baghel. Large groups of Congress workers also reached police stations with memorandums, alleging that the video was part of a targeted attempt at political character assassination. Party leaders warned of intensified protests if those behind the video were not arrested.
Women's commission intervenes
The state women's commission has also taken cognisance of the matter as the AI video involves Baghel's former deputy secretary. Commission chairperson Kiranmayi Nayak wrote to the Durg Superintendent of Police (SSP), calling it a sensitive case and asking for strict action as it involves a woman. She demanded a technical examination by the cyber cell.
FIR details and investigation
The case was registered at Bhilai Nagar police station on the complaint of Durg rural district Congress president Rakesh Thakur. Speaking to Times of India, Durg SP Vijay Agrawal said, "We have lodged an FIR against unidentified persons and written an official letter to Instagram to take the account down and share details about the handler." The investigation will continue to identify the handlers, source devices and the chain through which the clip spread.
The FIR has been registered under BNS section 353(2), which deals with statements creating or promoting enmity, hatred or ill will. Police said the cyber team is examining the video to establish its source, identify the first uploader and trace the persons involved in its creation and circulation.
Political escalation
The controversy escalated after Congress workers met SP Agrawal on Sunday and demanded immediate action. On Monday, party workers submitted complaints across several police stations in Durg district. Congress leaders said the matter was no longer limited to social media. They described it as an example of how AI and deepfake tools are being weaponised in politics to damage reputations and influence public perception.
