New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Friday directed Meta to remove objectionable images and links involving a woman from its platforms within 24 hours, after she alleged that her photograph had been manipulated using artificial intelligence and circulated during a Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar.
The court also issued notices to CJP leaders Saurav Das, Abhijeet Dipke, Ashutosh Ranka and Ratna Singh over the allegations. The four have been named as respondents in the woman’s plea. The court, however, has not established the allegations against them.
Justice Girish Kathpalia also directed Delhi Police to provide protection to the woman and sought a status report on the matter. The case is listed for further hearing on October 14, with police asked to place details of the action taken before the court.
What triggered the case?
The woman approached the authorities alleging that her personal photograph had been taken and manipulated using AI based face swapping technology. According to her complaint and court plea, her face was allegedly super imposed onto a vulgar and compromising image featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
She alleged that the manipulated image was displayed during a CJP protest at Jantar Mantar and subsequently circulated online, including through social media platforms. She also claimed that she received threats and abusive messages following the circulation of the material.
An FIR was registered by Delhi Police following her complaint. Importantly, reports on the FIR indicate that it was registered against unknown persons and that the four CJP leaders named in the court proceedings were not named as accused in the FIR.
Meta ordered to act
The High Court’s direction places the focus on the immediate removal of the allegedly manipulated material. Meta has been ordered to take down the objectionable pictures and related links from its platforms within 24 hours.
The case comes amid wider concerns over the use of AI generated and manipulated content. Earlier this month, Meta confirmed that it had removed several accounts and posts featuring AI manipulated visuals of women linked to the Jantar Mantar protests after they were flagged as violating its policies.
The court’s latest directions do not determine who created or circulated the disputed images. Those allegations remain subject to police investigation and further proceedings before the court.
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