The Maharashtra police cyber cell has filed an FIR against a user for allegedly uploading a deepfake or manipulated video showing actor Ranveer Singh endorsing the Congress party, according to an official.
The official added that the FIR was lodged on April 23 based on a complaint filed by the actor's father, Jagjit Singh Bhavnani, against the user @sujataindia1st.
According to the complaint, Ranveer Singh praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an interview with the media while he was in Varanasi to promote a fashion show. The actor reportedly stated that it is Modi ji's goal to celebrate India's rich culture and heritage as the country moves towards modernity.
However, the FIR alleges that the user @sujataindia1st created a deepfake video in which Singh is falsely portrayed as saying that Modi ji's goal is to highlight India's struggles with life, fear, and unemployment, and urges people to vote for the Congress party.
In the complaint, Ranveer Singh's father clarified that the actor never made such statements and has no affiliation with any political party.
The FIR was filed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 417 (cheating), 468 (forgery for cheating), and 469 (forgery to harm reputation), as well as provisions of the Information Technology Act, according to the official.
The police are conducting further investigations into the matter.
Deepfake videos are altered to convincingly misrepresent someone as saying or doing something they did not
Ranveer Singh is known for his energetic performances and versatility. He made his acting debut in 2010 with the film ‘Band Baaja Baaraat’ and quickly rose to fame with his charismatic presence on screen. Singh has since delivered several successful films.
Ranveer Singh was last seen in Karan Johar’s ‘Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani’ alongside Alia Bhatt. He will next be seen in Rohit Shetty’s ‘Singham Again’.
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