ECI Mandates AI Content Disclosure in Campaigns Amid Delhi Election Misinformation Concerns
January 16, 2025The advisory follows recent complaints and FIRs filed against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for allegedly sharing misleading AI-generated content, including altered images and videos of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
This directive emphasizes the importance of transparent labeling to help voters discern the authenticity of campaign materials, thereby maintaining electoral integrity.
On January 14, 2025, four FIRs were specifically filed against AAP for disseminating misleading AI-altered images, which included a defamatory image of Modi and a spoof featuring Amit Shah.
Additionally, AAP faced accusations of misinformation for using an AI-generated video depicting Dr. BR Ambedkar blessing party chief Arvind Kejriwal.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has warned of the risks associated with AI misuse, urging vigilance against misinformation that could undermine trust in the electoral process.
As the election date approaches, the ECI's advisory highlights the critical need for transparency and accountability in political campaigning.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a new advisory requiring political parties to disclose and label any AI-generated synthetic content used in their campaigns, especially ahead of the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections on February 5, 2025.
During a recent press conference, Kumar stressed the need for effective countermeasures against misinformation to protect electoral credibility.
In a proactive move to enhance voter engagement, Chief Electoral Officer R. Alice Vaz launched a voter awareness campaign, deploying over 3,000 auto-rickshaws across Delhi's 70 constituencies.
This campaign aims to motivate citizens to exercise their voting rights in the upcoming Delhi Legislative Assembly Elections.
These guidelines are intended to ensure a level playing field among political parties, particularly during the model code of conduct for the General Elections.
Anuj Chandak, the EC's Joint Director, noted that advancements in AI technology have enabled the creation of highly convincing synthetic content, including images, videos, and audio.
Summary based on 7 sources
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Sources
Times Of India • Jan 16, 2025
Election Commission urges parties to disclose AI generated campaign content 'in interest of transparency'Business Standard • Jan 16, 2025
ECI urges political parties for responsible use of AI in campaigningThe Hindu • Jan 16, 2025
EC issues advisory to political parties to ensure responsible use of AI-generated contentThe New Indian Express • Jan 16, 2025
ECI advisory to political parties: Be responsible, transparent in use of AI in campaigning