‘In 72 hours, remove AI video of MLA Sukhpal Khaira in woman’s attire’: Court to Meta

A Punjab Congress Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Sukhpal Singh Khaira, received a court order on Wednesday directing Meta Platforms to remove and disable access to a fabricated, defamatory, and AI-generated video within 72 hours. Civil Judge Kaushal Kumar Yadav was presiding over Khaira's lawsuit, which sought an interim injunction, protection of his reputation and dignity, and potential damages.

The MLA from Bholath constituency filed the complaint against a controversial video that showed his face, beard, and Sikh turban digitally altered and superimposed onto an AI-generated female figure in an off-shoulder dress. Khaira expressed concern over the video's widespread circulation, stating it damaged his reputation. His legal team argued the significance of the matter, emphasizing the viewers' objection to the depiction of Khaira's turbaned Sikh appearance.

Khaira's attorney requested an order instructing Meta to take down and block access to the disputed content from the Facebook page and Instagram account, as well as providing subscriber information for the involved login IDs. Meta's legal representative stated Meta is an intermediary and has no personal knowledge of the content but would comply with the court's directive.

The court deemed the plaintiff had a valid case for the interim injunction, as the content appeared defamatory, objectionable, and AI-generated. The judge noted that Khaira might suffer irreparable harm if the video remained accessible and shared on public platforms. The court also mandated that additional notices be issued to the two other defendants, whose identities remain undisclosed, for the upcoming hearing scheduled for September 14.