New Delhi: The Government of India has dismissed as fake a series of AI-generated videos circulating online that falsely depict Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Piyush Goyal making threatening remarks to students. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has said the videos are digitally manipulated and part of a misinformation campaign allegedly linked to Pakistani propaganda handles.
The PIB’s Fact Check Unit clarified that neither the Prime Minister nor the Union Minister made the statements attributed to them in the viral clips. According to officials, the videos use spliced audio and altered visuals to create a misleading narrative aimed at causing public alarm.
PIB confirms videos are AI-generated and misleading
The Press Information Bureau stated that the clips in circulation are not authentic and have been generated using artificial intelligence tools. The agency warned that such content is designed to misinform viewers and distort official communication.
“These fake videos with spliced audio show the Prime Minister and the minister threatening students and warning them of dire consequences,” the PIB said in its clarification.
The fact-checking unit emphasised that the original footage had been manipulated to present a completely different message from what was actually said.
Original videos altered to spread misinformation
Officials explained that one of the videos involving Narendra Modi was taken from a recent address in which he spoke about taking strict action against examination paper leaks. The altered version falsely portrays the remarks as threats directed at students.
Similarly, a clip of Piyush Goyal speaking to reporters outside Parliament was edited to change the tone and context of his comments. The manipulated version suggests that he issued warnings to protesters, which the PIB has categorically denied.
Authorities said such distortions are part of a broader attempt to mislead the public by exploiting widely viewed official videos.
Pakistani propaganda networks under scrutiny
The PIB has indicated that the fake videos are being circulated by social media accounts linked to Pakistani propaganda networks. These handles are allegedly pushing the content to amplify misinformation and create confusion among Indian audiences.
Officials noted that the use of AI-generated content and deepfake technology has made it easier for malicious actors to create convincing but false narratives. The government has expressed concern over the increasing sophistication of such campaigns.
While no specific accounts were publicly named, authorities said efforts are underway to track and counter the spread of such content across platforms.
PIB urges citizens to report fake content
The Press Information Bureau has urged citizens to remain vigilant and verify information before sharing it online. It has also provided official channels for reporting suspicious or misleading content.
People can report fake news or manipulated media through WhatsApp at +91 87997 11259 or via email at [email protected]. The agency reiterated that public participation is crucial in tackling misinformation.
The PIB Fact Check Unit was launched in November 2019 to counter fake news and misleading claims related to government policies and communications. It serves as the government’s official mechanism to verify viral content and provide accurate information.
Rising concern over AI-generated misinformation
The incident highlights growing concerns over the misuse of artificial intelligence to create deepfake videos. Experts have warned that such content can influence public opinion, damage reputations and create unnecessary panic.
With the increasing accessibility of AI tools, governments and technology platforms worldwide are facing challenges in identifying and curbing the spread of manipulated media.
In India, authorities have stepped up efforts to raise awareness about fake news and strengthen fact-checking mechanisms. However, officials stress that users must also exercise caution while consuming and sharing content on social media.
Conclusion
The government’s clarification on the fake videos involving Narendra Modi and Piyush Goyal underscores the importance of verifying information in the digital age. As AI-generated misinformation becomes more sophisticated, coordinated efforts between authorities, platforms and citizens will be essential to prevent its spread.
The PIB’s prompt response serves as a reminder that not all viral content is authentic, and responsible sharing of information remains key to maintaining public trust.