AI Deepfakes, Fake Crowd Videos & Pakistan Links: Maharashtra's CJP Stir Online Misinformation Network Unearthed

The Maharashtra Cyber department has identified more than 500 social media profiles allegedly involved in a coordinated disinformation campaign linked to the ongoing nationwide protests over the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP).

The agency said the network used AI-generated content, manipulated videos and misleading posts to influence public opinion and create unrest.

The Office of the Additional Director General of Police, Maharashtra Cyber department, which serves as the state’s nodal agency for cyber-related matters, said it launched a technology-driven monitoring operation after observing a surge in misleading content related to the protests.

The operation involved large-scale Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT), metadata analysis, behavioural profiling and forensic examination of AI-generated and deepfake content circulating across platforms such as Instagram, X, and YouTube.

According to Maharashtra Cyber department, investigators detected a coordinated network of accounts allegedly spreading false narratives, fabricated visuals and manipulated videos with the apparent objective of creating confusion, disturbing public order and influencing public perception.

The agency said technical analysis indicated that several anti-social elements operating from outside India, particularly from Pakistan and certain Middle Eastern countries, were actively amplifying misleading narratives targeting Indian audiences.

As part of the enforcement drive, Maharashtra Cyber initiated legal action and sought the removal of objectionable content through social media intermediaries.

Officials said the investigation identified 429 objectionable social media posts and accounts across multiple platforms. Of these, nearly 100 accounts were found to be operating from outside India, while forensic analysis established that more than 140 posts and profiles contained AI-generated or AI-assisted content.

The agency said its advanced audio-video forensic tools were used to scientifically detect manipulated content. The examination revealed several instances of digitally inflated crowd visuals, synthetic voice generation, cloned audio and edited videos falsely attributed to public figures in an apparent attempt to mislead viewers.

Officials added that such content has the potential to spread misinformation rapidly, particularly during sensitive public events, making early detection and intervention critical.

Maharashtra Cyber has urged citizens to remain vigilant while consuming and sharing content on social media. It appealed to users to adopt the principle of “Pause, Verify and Responsibly", advising people to verify the authenticity of messages, images and videos through official government sources and credible news organisations before forwarding them.

The agency reiterated that it will continue proactive monitoring of digital platforms and take strict legal action against individuals and organised networks involved in spreading misinformation, deepfakes and other unlawful online content.

Officials said safeguarding the integrity of the digital ecosystem remains a priority, especially during events that have the potential to impact public order and social harmony.