Chandigarh Court’s Interim Order Against Meta Platforms
A Chandigarh court has issued a directive to Meta Platforms, compelling them to remove a manipulated and AI-generated video featuring Punjab MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira in a misleading manner. This video, showcased on both Facebook and Instagram, was depicted inappropriately with Khaira appearing in an off-shoulder women’s dress, raising significant concerns about defamation and personal rights.
On August 12, Civil Judge (Junior Division) Kaushal Kumar Yadav granted an ad interim order, recognizing Khaira’s preliminary case for an injunction. The court remarked that the content was evidently defamatory and objectionable, further identifying it as AI-generated. It was emphasized that Khaira could face irreparable damage to his reputation and dignity if such content remained accessible.
Instructions to Meta
In response to the court’s findings, Meta, along with its agents and representatives, was instructed to disable access to the video and related posts on the “Charda Punjab” Facebook page and the “Chard_apunjab” Instagram account. This removal is mandated to occur within 72 hours of Meta receiving the court’s order.
Khaira, who serves as the representative for the Bholath constituency in the Punjab Legislative Assembly, initiated legal action demanding permanent and mandatory injunctions aimed at safeguarding his reputation and personal rights. The digital manipulation involved overlaying Khaira’s distinct facial features, including his beard and turban, onto a digitally fabricated female body, which was not only misleading but also harmful to his image.
Legal Proceedings and Representation
The widespread circulation of the video was highlighted as globally damaging to Khaira’s reputation. Due to the anonymity of the account operators, they were named as Ashok Kumar or John Doe defendants. Khaira also sought a court order for Meta to reveal the basic subscriber information of these unknown entities.
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Meta, represented by Advocate Abhijeet Singh Rawaley, acknowledged its role as an intermediary and assured compliance with the court’s decision, though the request for subscriber information was not explicitly granted in the interim order. The ongoing legal proceedings are scheduled for a subsequent hearing on September 14.
Advocate Sarabjot Singh Cheema is representing Sukhpal Singh Khaira in this case.
