Preity Zinta Scores Interim Victory in Bombay High Court Over AI Deepfakes
The Bombay High Court has granted interim relief to actress Preity Zinta in her ongoing legal battle against the unauthorized use of her likeness in AI-generated deepfakes, morphed images, and fake videos. Zinta sought the court’s protection against the misuse of her identity across various digital platforms. The court’s ruling emphasizes the responsibility of online intermediaries to address such violations and comply with the Information Technology Rules.
Court Questions Role of Online Platforms
During the hearing, Justice Madhav Jamdar raised concerns about the rising misuse of AI-generated content. He specifically questioned the accountability of social media platforms in tackling these issues. Addressing Meta’s counsel, Justice Jamdar stated, “You must be more concerned that your platform is being misused. If you start taking action, such type of offenders will stop. That will enhance your prestige only. Otherwise, you are part of affecting fundamental rights of the citizens of this country.”
In response, Meta’s counsel assured the court that the company has been taking “proactive steps” wherever possible to remove such unauthorized content. This exchange highlights the ongoing debate about the role of tech companies in safeguarding individuals’ rights in the digital age.
Preity Zinta Alleges Misuse of Her Identity
Senior advocate Venkatesh Dhond, representing Zinta, informed the court that the suit identified nearly 275 YouTube links allegedly containing AI-generated, morphed, or superimposed videos and images that misuse the actor’s likeness. The submissions indicated that this content infringes upon Zinta’s personality rights, publicity rights, and moral rights by using her identity without consent.
The court acknowledged Zinta’s extensive career, noting that she has spent over 25 years in the film industry and has appeared in more than 40 films, establishing a significant public identity. The justices observed that unauthorized AI-generated content using her image, likeness, and mannerisms could potentially harm her reputation. “The plaintiff’s personality rights, publicity rights and moral rights are violated by creation of such morphed and superimposed content,” the court remarked. It further emphasized that these rights are protected under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution, which include the right to live with dignity.
Court Grants Interim Protection
After reviewing the submissions, the Bombay High Court determined that Zinta had established a prima facie case and granted her interim relief in accordance with the amended prayers made in the suit. The court also permitted her to amend her plaint.
During the proceedings, counsel for Meta informed the court that the company would remove the links identified in the suit. However, they requested the liberty to raise objections if future complaints involve genuine photographs or otherwise lawful content. The court accepted this request and extended similar liberty to Google LLC. It clarified that if either platform raises objections regarding future complaints, Zinta would be free to approach the court for further directions.
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