Indian actress Aishwarya Rai has taken legal action, filing a petition in the Delhi High Court against AI-generated deepfake content. Her goal is to stop the misuse of her name, image, and likeness in explicit materials, marking a crucial point in tackling deepfake technology abuse in India.
Temporary Protective Order Considered
The Delhi High Court has suggested a temporary protective order during a recent hearing. This measure would prevent platforms and individuals from using Rai’s identity without consent. Additionally, the court plans to mandate the removal of infringing links and content.
Exploitation Through Deepfake Content
Aishwarya Rai has become a victim of “unreal intimate photographs” spread online. Her attorney argues her name and image are exploited for sexual purposes, severely violating her personal dignity and privacy rights.
Defendants in Legal Petition
The petition identifies several websites and platforms unlawfully profiting from Rai’s likeness, impacting both commercial entities and government bodies.
Commercial Defendants
Listed defendants include:
- Websites: aishwaryaworld.com, apkpure.com, and bollywoodteeshop.com
- E-commerce platform Etsy
- Organizations: Aishwarya Nation Wealth Motivational Speaker
- AI-driven chatbots
- YouTube channels: NewNWSTamil and Bollywood_CinemaTV07
- Technology giant Google
Government Bodies as Respondents
The petition includes Indian governmental bodies, such as the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Department of Telecommunications, highlighting the need for regulatory intervention in deepfake content.
Violation of Personality Rights
The petition claims deepfake technology produces “distasteful” images, violating publicity rights and assaulting personal dignity. Rai seeks legal protection for her name, voice, image, and distinctive dialogue delivery style, setting a precedent for safeguarding celebrity rights in the digital age.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
The court’s joint registrar reviewed the case on November 7, with further proceedings set for January 15. Legal experts predict this case could play a pivotal role in guiding future deepfake content regulation. Rai follows actors like Jackie Shroff and Anil Kapoor, who have taken legal steps to safeguard their personality rights from unauthorized exploitation.
