The BRICS TimesAhead of the Bihar Assembly Elections, the Election Commission has issued an advisory to political parties. This advisory aims to curb the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. The guidelines detail measures to minimize and completely stop the wrong use of AI in campaigning.
Curbing AI Misuse in Campaigns
The Bihar Assembly elections are fast approaching. The Election Commission (EC) has issued an advisory to political parties. It warns against the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) based tools. The advisory notes AI-generated content can show leaders delivering election-sensitive messages. This potentially affects the level playing field in elections.
Mandatory AI Labeling Rules
The EC referred to its previous guidelines and IT rules. It reiterated that any artificially created or AI-generated content needs proper labeling. This includes photos, audio, or videos used for campaigning. The label must be clear, prominent, and easily readable. Labels must include ‘AI-Generated,’ ‘Digitally Enhanced,’ or ‘Synthetic Material.’
AI Label Must Cover 10% Area
The AI label should cover at least 10% of the screen area. In a video, it must appear on the screen’s upper part. For audio content, this label or information must be included in the first 10% of the clip. This helps people easily understand AI was used in the content they are viewing.
Source Disclosure is Essential
AI-created photos, audio, or videos used for election promotion must clearly state the creator. This essential information should be included in the content’s metadata or caption. This disclosure will identify the individual or organization that created the image or video. It helps voters assess the trustworthiness of the content shown to them.
Content Removal Within 3 Hours
The EC’s new rules are very strict. They state that illegal AI-generated content cannot be shared or used. It also cannot be used without proper permission. A person’s identity, face, or voice cannot be misused in AI content without their consent. Content that deceives or confuses voters is strictly prohibited. This includes deepfake videos or audio of a leader saying something they never actually said.
If an official party social media handle shares AI-altered content, it must be removed. This applies to pictures, videos, or audio that spread misinformation or confuse people. The party must remove the content within three hours. This action must be taken upon complaint by the EC or any complainant.
EC Invokes Constitutional Power
The Election Commission issued previous guidelines in May 2024 and January this year. This latest advisory mainly reiterates those prior instructions. The EC is using its powers under Article 324 of the Constitution. This advisory is released before the Bihar polling scheduled for November 6 and 11.
