The Delhi High Court has restrained the unauthorized use of Acharya Manish’s name, image, voice and video content after allegations that AI-based tools and voice cloning were used to create misleading promotional material. The court observed that the matter prima facie involved violation of personality and publicity rights, and directed social media platforms to remove or block objectionable content without delay.
Personality Rights At Centre Of Case
The case concerns Acharya Manish, known for his work in Ayurveda, naturopathy and holistic health services. The petition alleged that unknown individuals and entities were exploiting his public reputation by creating advertisements that falsely suggested his endorsement of various products and services.
FCRF’s Flagship Cyber Law Certification Returns With a New Four-Week Cohort
The court noted that an individual’s identity cannot be used without consent for commercial exploitation or misleading promotional activity. It observed that Acharya Manish had built his credibility over years of professional work and public engagement, and that unauthorized use of his identity could harm his reputation while misleading consumers.
The court also underlined that such misuse of a public figure’s identity can create confusion among people who may believe that the endorsements are genuine.
AI Voice Cloning And Fake Videos Flagged
The petition alleged several forms of digital manipulation. Original video footage of Acharya Manish was allegedly edited and reused without permission. AI-based voice cloning was also allegedly used to replicate his voice and make fabricated promotional messages appear authentic.
The manipulated videos were circulated on social media platforms to advertise different products and services. According to the petition, the use of cloned audio with altered visuals created a misleading impression that Acharya Manish had personally endorsed the material.
The court expressed concern over the ease with which AI-generated content can be misused when there is no disclosure. It observed that such content poses a risk to public trust, digital integrity and consumer protection.
Platforms Told To Remove Misleading Content
The Delhi High Court directed social media platforms to immediately remove or block all objectionable links, videos and advertisements using Acharya Manish’s identity without authorization. The order covers AI-generated or manipulated content that misrepresents his endorsement of any product or service.
The court also issued a preventive injunction restraining unknown defendants from using his name, voice, image or videos in advertising or promotional activity in the future.
The case reflects growing legal concern over deepfake videos, synthetic voices and AI-generated content being used for deceptive marketing, identity misuse and misinformation. The court’s intervention marks another step toward stronger protection of digital identity and personality rights in India.
