Delhi Police files FIR against activist Bhushan over deepfake video

Delhi Police has initiated legal action against social activist and senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan following allegations that he circulated a fabricated video featuring a deepfake of Russia's Foreign Minister, according to police sources. The manipulated clip allegedly portrayed Bhushan engaging in commentary critical of India's internal governance and petroleum procurement decisions.

The FIR was filed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and information technology statutes dealing with forgery, impersonation, and circulation of false digital content. Police said the deepfake video was designed to misrepresent statements and create confusion by falsely attributing remarks to a high-ranking foreign official.

The development comes amid growing concerns about synthetic media and deepfakes being weaponized for misinformation in India. Authorities have increasingly focused on identifying and prosecuting cases involving fabricated videos that could impact public discourse or diplomatic relations.

Bhushan, who has been a vocal critic on various public policy matters, has not yet issued a public statement regarding the police action. Legal experts note that the case highlights the intersection of free speech, digital technology misuse, and law enforcement responses to manipulated media content in the country.