The Delhi High Court on Friday issued notices to four leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in connection with a woman's allegations that her photograph was digitally manipulated and used alongside an image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during protests at Jantar Mantar.
Justice Girish Kathpalia issued notices to Saurav Das, Abhijeet Dipke, Ashutosh Ranka and Ratna Singh while hearing the woman's petition seeking protection and action over the alleged misuse of her photograph.
The Court directed Meta to take down all objectionable photographs and associated links concerning the complainant from its social media platforms within 24 hours. It also ordered police protection for the woman and directed Delhi Police to submit a status report within two weeks.
During the hearing, Justice Kathpalia expressed concern over the allegations, observing that the controversy extended beyond the complainant because it also involved the Prime Minister. The judge indicated that the Court would ensure the matter received the necessary attention.
According to the complainant, her photograph was allegedly altered using artificial intelligence and face-swapping technology to create a misleading image featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
She alleged that the manipulated image appeared on large banners and posters during the CJP-led demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. She also claimed that objectionable slogans accompanied its display and that videos featuring the image subsequently circulated online, particularly on Instagram.
Following her complaint, Delhi Police registered an FIR against unidentified individuals.
Although the complaint named CJP leaders, including Saurav Das and Abhijeet Dipke, the FIR did not identify them or Ashutosh Ranka as accused. The High Court's decision to issue notices does not constitute a finding of criminal liability.
The controversy relates to demonstrations organised by the CJP that began on June 20 and lasted for more than a month.
The agitation included an attempted march towards Parliament, during which protesters clashed with security personnel. Police deployed batons and tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
The protests concluded on July 25 following the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the government's acceptance of the organisation's remaining demands.
The High Court proceedings now bring the alleged misuse of artificial intelligence, the circulation of manipulated images and the complainant's personal safety under judicial scrutiny.
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