A parliamentary committee in India has proposed sweeping new rules that could make it mandatory for creators of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content to both obtain licences and clearly label their work. The recommendations are aimed at tackling the surge of AI-driven fake news, which policymakers fear could mislead citizens and disrupt public order.
The Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, chaired by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, has submitted its draft report to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The report stresses that coordination between ministries such as Information and Broadcasting and Electronics and Information Technology will be vital to build legal and technological frameworks for identifying and prosecuting those misusing AI.
According to the panel, mandatory labelling of AI-generated images, videos, and articles would help audiences distinguish authentic content from fabricated material. The proposed licensing framework would also introduce accountability, ensuring that creators can be held responsible if their work causes harm.
Fact-checking and deepfake detection
Beyond regulating creators, the committee urged media organisations to adopt stronger internal safeguards. This includes implementing rigorous fact-checking systems and appointing ombudsmen tasked with upholding standards of quality and accuracy in reporting. Such measures, the report argues, will be essential to maintain public trust in an era where manipulated content can easily go viral.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has already taken steps in this direction by forming a dedicated panel to examine deepfake-related challenges. Two major projects are currently underway to develop detection tools capable of flagging fake speech and identifying deepfake videos, highlighting the government’s growing focus on AI-driven misinformation.
Just recommendations as of now
While the recommendations are not legally binding, parliamentary committee reports in India often carry significant weight and can shape government policy. The draft report is expected to be presented in the next session of Parliament, where proposals on licensing, labelling, and accountability will be debated.