Fake AI Videos Trigger Tensions in Ujjain; Police Probe Social Media Rumours
Ujjain: Tensions erupted in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain after a dispute surrounding the removal of a portion of the historic Shahi Masjid reportedly escalated into stone-pelting and clashes with police. Authorities are now investigating the role of social media and allegedly AI-generated videos in spreading misinformation about the incident.
AI-Generated Videos Under Police Scanner
According to Ujjain Police, videos circulating on social media falsely showed the entire Shahi Masjid being demolished. Police said the visuals were AI-generated and created a misleading impression about what was happening at the site.
The actual action involved the removal of only the portion of the mosque that falls within the alignment of a road being widened as part of preparations for the 2028 Simhastha. Police are examining the accounts that originally uploaded the videos as well as those that subsequently circulated them.
How the Situation Escalated
The controversy intensified after authorities began the process of removing the affected portion of the structure. Residents and members of the Muslim community gathered at the site, with some opposing the proposed removal.
According to police reports, misinformation circulating online contributed to confusion among some people. The situation later turned violent, with stones allegedly being thrown at security personnel. Police used tear gas and lathi charge to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Police Investigating Social Media Accounts
Ujjain Police have launched an investigation into the online material that circulated before and during the unrest. More than 100 social media accounts have reportedly come under scrutiny as investigators try to trace how the misleading videos and claims were spread.
Police have also taken legal action against people allegedly involved in the violence and the circulation of misinformation. Reports on September 29 said 15 people had been arrested, while multiple FIRs had been registered in connection with the incident.
Road-Widening Project Behind the Dispute
The dispute is linked to a road-widening project in Ujjain being undertaken ahead of the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh Mela. The portion of the Shahi Masjid that falls within the planned road alignment was being removed as part of the project.
Reports said the mosque committee and members of the local Muslim community later cooperated with the administration in removing the affected portion.
Authorities Urge People to Avoid Rumours
Officials and community representatives have appealed to residents to avoid believing or forwarding unverified information. Authorities have also increased security in the area and are monitoring social media activity to prevent further misinformation from spreading.
The incident has highlighted the potential real-world consequences of manipulated digital content. AI-generated images and videos can make false events appear authentic, particularly when they are shared rapidly without verification.
Verify Before Sharing
The Ujjain incident has once again raised concerns about the spread of misinformation through social media platforms. Authorities are urging people to verify videos and claims through reliable news sources or official statements before sharing them.
As the police investigation continues, the origin of the allegedly fake AI videos and the role of individual social media accounts remain under scrutiny.
