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IAS Officer Questioned Over AI-Generated Land Image in Telangana
A Telangana IAS officer was issued a police notice after reposting an AI-generated image depicting tree felling at a disputed 400-acre land site during university student protests. Police clarified she was questioned as a witness regarding the source of the synthetic image, and multiple cases have been registered regarding the circulation of AI-generated visuals during the protests.
13 April 2025 · Smita Sabharwal · Misinformation and synthetic media
Gachibowli police issued a notice to senior IAS officer Smita Sabharwal seeking details about an AI-generated image depicting tree felling at the disputed Kancha Gachibowli land. The image was originally posted by another user on X (formerly Twitter) and later reposted by Sabharwal on her verified account.
Police clarified that the notice was issued to Sabharwal as a witness, not as a suspect, stating it was done 'only to know from where the photo was accessed.' Cyberabad police have registered three cases across multiple stations regarding the circulation of AI-generated visuals during protests held by University of Hyderabad students.
Reported impact
Sabharwal was among several public figures accused of reposting the AI-generated image during protests related to the disputed land. The state government directed police to investigate the source and intent behind the circulation of such synthetic visuals.