The Delhi High Court has issued a strong interim order directing social media platforms and other online outlets to immediately remove AI-generated deepfake content impersonating spiritual leader Sadhguru. The court's decision follows a petition filed by Sadhguru and the Isha Foundation citing violations of personality rights.
The court’s directive comes in response to growing concerns about the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create fake voices, images, and videos of public figures. In recent months, numerous complaints had surfaced alleging that manipulated videos and audio clips featuring Sadhguru were being widely circulated online. These were allegedly being used to mislead the public, promote fraudulent investment schemes, and artificially boost follower counts on platforms such as YouTube.
During the hearing, the Delhi High Court observed that no public figure’s image or identity can be used for fraudulent or exploitative purposes. The bench stressed the importance of safeguarding digital identity and warned against the misuse of AI to impersonate or defame individuals.
In a statement posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Isha Foundation welcomed the court’s ruling. “This type of fake content not only harms Sadhguru’s image but also exposes the public to potential fraud,” the foundation said. It further added that they are actively working to identify and remove such deceptive content while helping the public avoid falling prey to online scams.
Calling the judgment “a significant step toward protecting the image and rights of public figures in the digital age,” the Isha Foundation stressed the growing need for regulation in AI content creation and dissemination.
This interim order is being hailed as a landmark move in India’s evolving legal stance on AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes, particularly concerning the misuse of celebrity identities.