Deepfake Threat: Centre Warns Amid Social Media Crackdown Backlash

• Centre raises concerns over deepfakes and AI-generated misinformation, citing threats to public order, electoral integrity, and national security.
• Government officials are worried about realistic AI content impersonating public figures and fabricating incidents.
• India's large social media user base makes the issue particularly sensitive due to rapid spread of misinformation.
• Centre's efforts to regulate online content face criticism from opposition and digital rights groups over free speech concerns.
• Debate highlights the challenge of balancing platform regulation, public safety, and freedom of expression in India's digital space.