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PIB Debunks AI-Generated Video Falsely Attributing Statements to Army Chief About Sonam Wangchuk
The Press Information Bureau’s fact-check unit has exposed a sophisticated disinformation campaign involving an AI-generated video that falsely showed Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi commenting on the alleged death of Ladakh activist Sonam Wangchuk in custody.
In a statement released Thursday on social media platform X, PIB warned: “Pakistani propaganda accounts are circulating a digitally altered video of Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, in which he appears to be talking about the custodial death of Sonam Wangchuk.”
The agency emphasized that the video was fabricated using artificial intelligence technology and that General Dwivedi has made no such statement. PIB urged citizens to refrain from sharing unverified content designed to spread misinformation and undermine faith in the Indian Armed Forces.
The fabricated video showed what appeared to be General Dwivedi expressing “deep regret at the passing of Sonam Wangchuk while he was in state custody” and extending condolences to Wangchuk’s family. The manipulated clip even included a fabricated statement in which the Army Chief supposedly requested that the central government conduct “a thorough and transparent inquiry” into the alleged death.
According to PIB, the Pakistani account that shared the video included text claiming: “Following the custodial death of Sonam Wangchuk, Indian Army chief Gen. Upendra Dwivedi offered condolences, now being suppressed by media. Even the Army seems exhausted by Hindutva fascists forcing their own agenda.”
The government agency confirmed that the original footage used to create the deepfake was from General Dwivedi’s address at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2025, where he actually discussed military modernization efforts, stating: “The military is shedding inhibitions, opening ranges, funding startups, and joining national technology missions to strengthen this troika transformation even further.”
This incident highlights the growing sophistication of AI-generated deepfakes as tools for cross-border disinformation campaigns. Such digitally manipulated content can be particularly dangerous during times of political tension, as it exploits existing narratives to create confusion and mistrust.
Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent climate activist from Ladakh, was detained on September 26, two days after violent protests in Leh that resulted in four deaths and over 90 injuries. The protests were part of a movement demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. Authorities have accused Wangchuk of inciting unrest.
Following his detention, Wangchuk was transferred to a jail in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, and charged under the National Security Act (NSA), which permits preventive detention for up to 12 months in cases considered threats to national security.
On November 23, the Leh Apex Body (LAB), an organization spearheading the Ladakh agitation, submitted a proposal to the home ministry that included a call for “general amnesty” for Wangchuk and others detained in connection with the September 24 violence. The group stated that releasing detainees would be essential for “restoring peace and building confidence” in the region.
The PIB has advised social media users to exercise caution and rely solely on official and credible sources for accurate information, particularly regarding sensitive matters related to national security and public figures.
The incident underscores the critical role of fact-checking organizations in an era when AI-generated content is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from authentic media.
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14 Comments
This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of AI-generated content and the importance of critical thinking when consuming information online. I commend the PIB for their proactive efforts to debunk this fabricated video and protect the public from misinformation.
Agreed. The ability to create convincing fake videos using AI is a concerning development that requires vigilance and a strong commitment to fact-based reporting. Kudos to the authorities for their swift action in this case.
While the activist’s safety and well-being are of paramount concern, this case highlights the need for robust verification processes and fact-based reporting, especially when it comes to sensitive issues. Kudos to the PIB for their diligence in exposing this manipulation.
Absolutely. In an era of rapidly evolving technology, maintaining the integrity of information is crucial for a well-informed public. Responsible journalism and fact-checking will be key to combating the spread of disinformation.
While the details of this case are still unfolding, it’s clear that the use of AI to create false narratives poses a serious threat to informed public discourse. The PIB’s response in swiftly debunking this video is a positive step, but more work is needed to combat the spread of digital misinformation.
Absolutely. Maintaining trust in institutions and public figures is crucial, and the proliferation of AI-generated fake content undermines that trust. Robust fact-checking and public awareness campaigns will be essential to address this challenge.
The creation of an AI-generated video falsely depicting the Army Chief’s comments on this activist’s case is a troubling development. I’m glad the PIB was able to quickly expose this manipulation and warn the public against sharing unverified content. Vigilance and fact-checking are essential to combat digital misinformation.
Agreed. The ability to fabricate audio and video footage using AI technology is a concerning trend that requires a strong response from authorities and media outlets. Kudos to the PIB for their proactive efforts to maintain public trust and protect the integrity of information.
Disturbing to see such sophisticated disinformation campaigns targeting activists and undermining public trust. The Indian government was right to quickly debunk this AI-generated fake video. Citizens must be vigilant about verifying information, especially on sensitive issues.
Absolutely. Fact-checking is crucial to combat the spread of manipulated content designed to mislead the public. Kudos to the PIB for their swift response in exposing this propaganda.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for AI to be misused to spread disinformation and undermine public trust. While the technology holds great promise, its abuse can have serious consequences. I commend the PIB for their swift action in debunking this fabricated video and urging citizens to be cautious about unverified content.
Absolutely. The proliferation of AI-generated fake media is a concerning trend that requires a multi-pronged approach involving fact-checking, media literacy education, and robust regulations. Kudos to the authorities for their efforts to combat this threat to informed public discourse.
This is a troubling example of how AI technology can be abused to create false narratives and smear campaigns. I’m glad the authorities acted swiftly to set the record straight and warn people against sharing unverified content.
Agreed. The use of AI to fabricate video footage is a concerning development that can have serious consequences. Fact-checking and media literacy are essential to counter the threat of digital misinformation.