Bachchans sue Google and YouTube over AI-generated deepfake videos
Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan have taken legal action against Google and YouTube over AI-generated videos that use their likenesses without permission. The couple is seeking $450,000 in damages and a permanent ban on such content. A Delhi High Court judge has already ordered the removal of 518 links and posts flagged by the actors for causing financial and reputational harm. The dispute centres on a YouTube channel called AI Bollywood Ishq, which posts AI-generated Bollywood love stories. With 259 videos and 16.5 million views, the channel has drawn criticism for using the Bachchans' images and voices without consent. The actors argue that these videos violate their personality rights and spread misleading information.
The Bachchans' legal team has demanded that Google implement stricter safeguards to prevent AI platforms from training on unauthorised content. They warn that if AI models are built on biased or infringing material, it could amplify false narratives. YouTube's current policy allows creators to opt in to share their videos for AI training, but the Bachchans claim this has enabled exploitation. Eashan Ghosh, an intellectual property expert at National Law University Delhi, notes that suing YouTube directly may be difficult. However, he suggests the court could push the platform to tighten its policies. YouTube has paid over $2.4 billion to Indian creators in the last three years, though some of these earnings come from videos that infringe personality rights. The Delhi High Court has asked Google's legal team to submit written responses before the next hearing on January 15. The case highlights growing concerns over AI-generated content and the protection of celebrity rights in India.
The court's decision could shape how platforms like YouTube handle AI-generated content involving public figures. For now, the Bachchans await a ruling on their demand for stronger safeguards and compensation. The outcome may influence future cases involving digital likenesses and intellectual property rights.
