Pune's Leopard Panic: 8 Caught, But 90% Calls Fake Amid AI Video Scare

• Forest department captured 8 leopards in Pune's urban and rural areas in December.
• A leopard was recently spotted in Keshavnagar near Konark Riva Housing Society, entering Alkan Society.
• 90% of the 30-40 daily calls to the forest department regarding leopards are fake, often fueled by AI-generated videos.
• Fake videos include AI-created content, old clips from other states like Rajasthan, and misidentified dogs/cats.
• Residents are fearful, especially at night; the forest department warns of legal action against rumor-mongers and advises precautions like staying indoors and calling helpline 1926.

Why It Matters: Pune faces a dual threat: real leopards and widespread panic fueled by fake AI videos and rumors.