‘Posts against Nitin Gadkari vile, defamatory. Take them down’: Bombay HC amid E20 row

Scroll.inIndependentCenter5 hr. ago

The Bombay High Court has instructed social media platforms to remove AI-generated videos that falsely link Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to criticisms of the government's E20 ethanol-blending policy. Justice Arif Doctor ruled that the content was 'per se defamatory' and ordered its removal. Gadkari, who stated he had no role in administering the E20 program, accused the videos of using his image without consent and spreading harmful misinformation. The E20 policy mandates 20% ethanol blending in petrol to reduce fossil fuel dependence and boost farmer incomes. However, vehicle owners have criticized the policy, citing reduced mileage and increased vehicle wear. Polls show significant dissatisfaction among drivers, with many reporting decreased performance and mechanical issues. Gadkari has defended the policy, asserting that it was developed through collective government efforts and that no cars are currently affected by E20.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives: the government's stance supporting the E20 policy and the opposition from vehicle owners and critics. It reports on legal actions taken against AI-generated defamatory content, but does not overtly favor either side. The framing remains balanced, focusing on事实

Times of IndiaIndependentCenter5 hr. ago

The Bombay High Court has ordered social media platforms like Meta, Google, and YouTube to remove defamatory content linking Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and his family to the E20 ethanol-blending program. The court described the flagged material as 'vile and abusive,' noting that it falsely accused Gadkari of deriving undue financial benefits from the program and implied corruption. The content included AI-generated images and deepfake videos, with some posts specifically referencing Gadkari's son and his involvement with an ethanol-related company. While the court granted interim relief, it emphasized that this directive applies only to the specific content identified in the case, not to all online criticism of the minister. Gadkari denies the allegations, and the case will proceed further.

Bias read (Center): While the subject involves a political figure and potential defamation claims, the article presents the court's decision and the legal process objectively. It does not overtly favor one side over another, nor does it employ loaded language or one-sided sourcing. The framing remains neutral, focusing

Hindustan TimesIndependentCenter5 hr. ago

The Bombay High Court has ordered major social media platforms like Meta, X, and Google to remove defamatory posts and AI-generated deepfake videos targeting Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and his family. The posts allege that Gadkari and his family benefited financially from the ethanol-blended petrol (EBP) program, insinuating corruption and misuse of power. The court described the content as 'vile' and 'abusive,' emphasizing that such material should not appear on public platforms. The order also mandates that platforms develop a framework to address similar content without requiring court intervention each time. Gadkari had previously filed a petition alleging that the posts were false, fabricated, and aimed at damaging his reputation. The case comes amid controversy over the EBP program, which aims to reduce crude oil imports by blending ethanol with petrol. Motorists have raised concerns about the impact of E20 fuel on vehicle performance, but the government has dismissed these claims as misinformation.

Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a politically sensitive issue involving a high-profile minister and allegations of misconduct, the reporting remains balanced by presenting both the minister's claims and the government's stance. The court's ruling is presented objectively, without overtly endorsing or批判링