AI-Generated Deepfake Video of Former Indian Army Chief Causes Disinformation
An AI-generated deepfake video of former Indian Army Chief Manoj Pande circulated online, falsely depicting him making controversial remarks about the Indian Army turning into an "ethnic force" and facing "complete mutiny." The Press Information Bureau identified the video as digitally manipulated and attributed its spread to Pakistani propaganda accounts as part of a coordinated disinformation campaign targeting India's defense and military credibility.
What happened
A viral deepfake video appeared online allegedly showing former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Manoj Pande speaking about a 'complete mutiny' in the Indian Army and claiming that supporting Israel was causing the military to become an 'ethnic force,' with Israeli instructors training soldiers to dehumanize communities.
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check unit identified the video as AI-generated and digitally manipulated, with altered audio and text. The PIB released the original, authentic video showing Gen. Pande discussing military preparedness and future security challenges.
Reported impact
The PIB stated that the manipulated video was part of a coordinated disinformation campaign aimed at misleading the public and undermining trust in the Indian Armed Forces.
Index analysis
Pakistani propaganda accounts were identified as circulating the deepfake video as part of efforts to spread misinformation online and potentially create a rift between India and Israel during the Iran-Israel conflict.
Governance controls
The PIB issued public warnings about the deepfake video and urged citizens to verify information from official and credible sources before sharing content on social media platforms.
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.