Prayagraj police arrest man over AI‑generated misleading image targeting Magh Mela 2026

Prayagraj police have taken decisive action against cyber crime by arresting a man for allegedly posting an AI‑generated misleading image on social media to defame the ongoing Magh Mela 2026, officials said on Thursday. The accused has been identified as Deepak Kumar Tiwari , also known as Deepak Mukesh Tiwari, who was apprehended from near Nand Kishor Inter College in the Meja area of the district.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Ganganagar) Kuldeep Singh Gunawat said the Cyber Crime unit had been monitoring social media platforms for false and inflammatory content related to the religious festival , which runs for 44 days on the banks of the sacred Sangam and attracts millions of devotees. “We took cognisance of an AI‑generated image circulating through the Facebook account of Deepak Kumar Tiwari and other handles. The image falsely showed a policeman pulling the shikha (tuft of hair) of a young ascetic,” Gunawat said. “Such misleading material was shared with the intent to damage the reputation of Magh Mela 2026, create public outrage, and threaten law and order .”

Gunawat added, “The accused has been arrested and sent to jail, and we have recovered his mobile phone as part of the investigation. Action will be taken against all social media accounts found posting misleading content. The law’s eye is equal on all.”

This is not the first instance of police action in the region against misleading digital content tied to large religious gatherings. Authorities have previously warned against and taken action on fake or altered images and videos that could stoke social tensions or misinform the public.

Magh Mela 2026 is a major religious event scheduled to continue through February, with extensive security measures, including multiple police stations and fire safety posts deployed across the mela area to ensure safety and order amid large crowds.

Police have reaffirmed that surveillance of online platforms will continue throughout the festival period to prevent the spread of misinformation and protect the integrity of public discourse during the event.