As India heads into another crucial election cycle across states like West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and the Union Territory of Puducherry, concerns around misinformation and digital manipulation have resurfaced. In recent years, several prominent actors have fallen victim to deepfake videos, particularly during election periods.
Ranveer Singh
Ranveer Singh was targeted during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections when a manipulated video surfaced online showing him criticising the government and urging people to vote for “justice.” The clip quickly went viral before being debunked as a deepfake. The actor later cautioned fans about such content, highlighting the growing misuse of technology.
Aamir Khan
A similar incident involved Aamir Khan, whose morphed video appeared to show him endorsing a political party. Following the viral spread, Mumbai Police registered an FIR under charges related to impersonation and cheating. The actor clarified that he has never supported any political party and reiterated his association only with voter awareness campaigns.
Ashutosh Rana
Actor Ashutosh Rana also became a victim of a fake video during the elections, where he was falsely shown promoting a political outfit. Speaking about the issue, he warned about the dangers of deepfakes, noting how easily reputations built over years can be damaged within moments.
Allu Arjun
South Indian superstar Allu Arjun was also caught in a similar controversy. A viral clip falsely claimed he had entered politics and was campaigning for a party. However, fact-checks revealed that the footage was from a 2022 event in New York and had been misrepresented.
Other Celebrities Affected
Apart from election-related cases, actors like Rashmika Mandanna, Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt have also been victims of deepfake videos, raising broader concerns about digital safety and misuse of artificial intelligence.
Conclusion
The rise of deepfake technology during election seasons highlights a growing threat to both public figures and democratic processes. As misinformation becomes more sophisticated, experts stress the need for stricter regulations, digital awareness, and vigilance among users.