India Proposes Strict Anti-AI Deepfake Legislation Amid Rising Cyber Threats
India plans new law to combat AI deepfakes and cyber fraud, aiming to prevent misinformation and protect national security.
POLICY WIRE — New Delhi, India — The Indian government is drafting a comprehensive law to address the growing threat of AI-generated deepfakes and impersonation scams. This move comes in response to a marked increase in cyber fraud and fake videos, particularly those targeting high-ranking military officers.
The proposed legislation seeks to fill existing gaps in India’s legal framework by providing clear definitions and punishments for offenses related to deepfakes. It will also encompass provisions for “digital arrest,” a novel approach to tackling online impersonation.
The surge in deepfake incidents has raised alarms about the potential for misinformation to exacerbate tensions during geopolitical crises. Last year’s conflict with Pakistan highlighted the vulnerability of misinformation campaigns, prompting urgent calls for legislative action.
Officials emphasize the need for robust legal measures to safeguard national security — and public trust. The new law aims to deter malicious actors — and provide a legal recourse for victims of deepfake-related offenses.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

