PIB Fact-Check Unit Exposes AI-Generated Fake Video
The Press Information Bureau's fact-check unit has officially debunked a fabricated video featuring Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi that circulated on social media platforms. The unit confirmed on Thursday that the clip was artificially generated using advanced AI technology and contained completely false statements attributed to the military leader.
How the Misinformation Spread
In a detailed post on social media platform X, the PIB explicitly warned citizens about the deceptive content being circulated by Pakistani propaganda accounts. The digitally altered video falsely portrayed General Dwivedi making remarks about the alleged custodial death of prominent Ladakh climate activist Sonam Wangchuk.
The PIB statement clearly emphasized: "The Chief of the Army Staff has made NO such statement." The fact-checking agency further highlighted the malicious intent behind such content, explaining that it aims to spread misinformation and undermine public trust in the Indian Armed Forces.
Content of the Fabricated Video
According to the fake post shared by Pakistan-based accounts, the video showed General Dwivedi apparently expressing regret about Wangchuk's death and offering condolences to his family. The fabricated clip featured the Army Chief saying: "I express my deep regret at the passing of Sonam Wangchuk while he was in state custody. His death has caused understandable concern among citizens across Ladakh and the rest of the country."
The AI-generated content continued with what appeared to be General Dwivedi requesting a transparent inquiry from the central government and emphasizing the need for accountability in cases of deaths during detention.
The Actual Context of Original Video
PIB investigators confirmed that the original video was completely unrelated to the Wangchuk case. The authentic footage was posted by news agency PTI on the same day and showed General Dwivedi addressing the Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2025.
In the legitimate speech, the Army Chief discussed military modernization, stating: "The military is shedding inhibitions, opening ranges, funding startups, and joining national technology missions to strengthen this troika transformation even further."
Background of Sonam Wangchuk's Detention
Sonam Wangchuk was detained on September 26, two days after violent protests erupted in Leh demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. The clashes resulted in four fatalities and over 90 injuries. Authorities have accused the climate activist of inciting the unrest.
Wangchuk was subsequently transferred to a jail in Jodhpur, Rajasthan and booked under the National Security Act (NSA), which permits preventive detention for up to 12 months in cases considered threats to national security.
Recent Developments in Ladakh Situation
On November 23, the Leh Apex Body (LAB), which leads the agitation movement, submitted a draft proposal to the home ministry. The document identified a "general amnesty" for Wangchuk and others detained during the September 24 violence as a key condition for continuing talks with the central government.
The LAB argued that releasing detainees would help "restore peace and build confidence" throughout the Ladakh region, creating a more conducive environment for meaningful dialogue.
Official Warning Against Misinformation
The PIB has issued a strong warning about the increasing sophistication of AI-generated fake content designed to spread false narratives. The fact-check unit urged social media users to exercise extreme caution and verify information through official channels before sharing any content.
"Stay cautious. Do not share or engage with unverified content. Rely only on official and credible sources for accurate information," the PIB emphasized in its social media advisory.
The incident highlights the growing challenge of AI-powered misinformation campaigns and the importance of relying on verified government sources for critical information concerning national security and public figures.
