Gujarat HC Issues Notices to Meta, X, Google in Deepfake Crackdown Case

The Gujarat High Court has intensified scrutiny of artificial intelligence misuse, issuing notices to major technology firms including Meta, Google, X, Reddit and Scribd over a PIL seeking a robust regulatory framework to curb the spread of deepfake content. A division bench led by Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice D N Ray has asked the platforms to respond by May 8, underlining the need for accountability , compliance , and transparency in handling unlawful AI-generated material.

The court’s intervention comes amid a surge in deepfakes and synthetic media incidents globally and in India, where manipulated videos and images have been used to spread misinformation , damage reputations and influence public perception. Recent controversies involving AI-generated content targeting individuals and public figures have heightened concerns around privacy , dignity , and democratic processes. The bench observed that unchecked circulation of such content could have irreversible consequences on society and public order.

A key concern raised in the proceedings is the growing need to protect personality rights, including an individual’s image, voice and identity, from unauthorised AI manipulation. The petitioner argued that existing legal provisions under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita remain inadequate to deal with evolving technological threats such as impersonation and identity misuse. The court is now examining whether a more comprehensive legal framework is required to safeguard citizens against such violations.

The Centre, in its affidavit, highlighted recent amendments to IT Rules, 2026, which mandate clear labelling of AI-generated content and faster takedown timelines. Platforms are now required to identify and disclose synthetic media, deploy detection tools and ensure unlawful content is removed within strict timelines, in some cases within hours of official notice. These measures are aimed at improving traceability , strengthening enforcement , and enhancing user awareness.

The government also pointed to the Sahyog portal, launched in October 2024, as a key tool for coordination between law enforcement agencies and intermediaries. The platform is designed to enable real-time action, facilitate access to digital evidence and ensure timely removal of harmful content. However, authorities flagged delays and inconsistent responses from certain intermediaries, which continue to hinder effective implementation.

The Ministry of Home Affairs informed the court that while some platforms have improved responsiveness, others have shown non-compliance with lawful directions. In particular, X was flagged for its limited formal responses to multiple notices related to unlawful and AI-generated content, raising concerns about adherence to due diligence obligations. Such gaps, the government argued, weaken regulation efforts and obstruct timely investigations.

The Gujarat government echoed these concerns, noting that even after repeated notices, some platforms fail to act promptly, allowing harmful content to remain publicly accessible. It has called for a more robust framework with defined response timelines, stronger enforcement provisions and improved communication channels between authorities and digital platforms.

As the matter progresses, the High Court’s observations signal a crucial moment in shaping India’s approach to AI governance. With rising risks from deepfakes and growing emphasis on platform responsibility, the case is expected to influence future policy , legal safeguards and the broader balance between technological innovation and public interest.