EC focuses on curbing Deepfake content during Maharashtra polls

The Election Commission expressed serious concerns about Deepfake AI and warned of strict action against those spreading fake narratives. On Tuesday, the Election Commission (EC) announced the schedule for the Maharashtra and Jharkhand assembly elections, as well as by-elections for 47 Assembly seats and the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar warned of strict measures against those using Artificial Intelligence and deepfakes to spread misinformation about elections. He mentioned that the commission successfully addressed this issue during the Lok Sabha elections through continuous monitoring from control rooms.

"Deepfake is a serious issue. It is disrupting elections worldwide. We managed to control such incidents—like the misuse of someone’s photo or voice—through control rooms and social media teams established in all districts," he explained in response to a question.

"In police headquarters, continuous monitoring is conducted to identify fake content and take immediate corrective action. This has led to the removal of posts in some cases and criminal action where warranted. There are still people spreading fake narratives in various ways. We are being cautious, but the moment it crosses the red line, we will take action," Kumar added.

Additionally, the Maharashtra government reportedly spent ₹900 crore on advertising and public relations. Elections in Maharashtra are scheduled for November 20, with the counting on November 23. The advertising and PR expenditures were allocated to promote various state welfare schemes.