AI-generated deepfake video of former Chhattisgarh CM Baghel shared on Instagram
An AI-generated deepfake video of former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel was reportedly shared on Instagram from accounts allegedly promoting defamatory content to damage his reputation. Police registered a case and sought account details from Instagram, while the state women's commission also intervened citing involvement of a woman in the video.
What happened
A suspected AI-generated deepfake video targeting former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel was allegedly shared from Instagram handles named 'congresspolkhol' and 'randomchhattisgarh'.
The video reportedly involved Baghel's former deputy secretary. Congress leaders alleged the content was 'fake, defamatory and deliberately created' to malign Baghel.
Reported impact
The video triggered a political storm in Durg, prompting Congress workers to reach the police station with memorandums alleging 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.
Index analysis
Congress leaders described the incident as an example of how AI and deepfake tools are being weaponised in politics to damage reputations and influence public perception.
Governance controls
Police registered an FIR under BNS section 353(2), which deals with statements creating or promoting enmity, hatred or ill will, and wrote to Instagram for account details and to take the accounts down.
The Chhattisgarh State Women's Commission took cognisance of the matter as the video involves a woman and demanded a technical examination by the cyber cell.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
This record was researched and written by the Index from original reporting. Its sources are still being verified by an editor, and they are listed here once that check is complete. Until then the record carries no reviewer.