Delhi HC Shields Spiritual Leader from AI Deepfake Misuse of Identity

The order was passed by Justice Tushar Rao Gedela in a suit filed by Dr. Aniruddha Dhairyadhar Joshi, who is widely revered by followers as "Aniruddha Bapu."

The Court noted that the plaintiff has made out a strong prima facie case, observing that his personality, reputation, and goodwill built over decades of spiritual teachings were being unlawfully exploited through fabricated videos, images, and voice-cloned content. It held that failure to grant immediate relief would cause irreparable harm that cannot be compensated monetarily.

According to the plea, unknown individuals (John Does) used advanced AI tools to create deepfake videos and images falsely depicting the spiritual leader delivering sermons, endorsing products, and interacting with followers. These videos were widely circulated on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X, garnering significant public engagement and misleading viewers into believing them to be authentic.

The Court recognised that such content not only misleads the public but also dilutes the credibility and trust associated with the plaintiff. It further observed that the unauthorised use of a person's name, voice, image, and mannerisms amounts to infringement of personality and publicity rights, which are protected under the law.

In its directions, the High Court restrained the defendants from using or exploiting the plaintiff's identity, including his name, voice, likeness, and distinctive style, through any medium, including AI-generated or deepfake content. It also directed major platforms such as Google, Meta, and X to take down the identified infringing content within 48 hours of receiving a complaint and to disclose details of the accounts responsible for uploading such material.

Additionally, the Court ordered the unidentified defendants to cease all such activities and provide details of the fabricated content created using the plaintiff's persona. It emphasised that the misuse of emerging technologies like AI for impersonation and commercial gain cannot be permitted.

The matter will next be heard after completion of pleadings, with further proceedings scheduled later this year.

Notably, the plaintiff in the present case is a prominent spiritual figure, similar in public influence to personalities like Aniruddhacharya Maharaj, a popular Katha orator and founder of Gauri Gopal Ashram in Vrindavan, known for his large following and strong digital presence.

- ANI