Google has been asked by Delhi HC to leverage its advanced technology to curb misleading AI-generated deepfake advertisements exploiting Sadhguru’s likeness, including sensational claims of his “false arrest.”
The Delhi High Court directed Google to leverage its advanced technology to curb misleading AI-generated deepfake advertisements exploiting Sadhguru’s likeness, including sensational claims of his “false arrest.” This order follows repeated failures by Google to prevent the misuse of Sadhguru’s name, images, and videos on platforms like YouTube. The case highlights growing concerns over digital misinformation, personality rights violations, and the need for proactive tech interventions by social media giants.
Background and Court Proceedings
Sadhguru, the renowned spiritual leader and founder of the Isha Foundation, along with the foundation, approached the Delhi High Court earlier this year to protect his personality rights from rampant exploitation. On May 30, 2025, the court issued an interim order safeguarding these rights and instructing Google to suspend, remove, and deactivate infringing channels and content.
Despite this, deceptive ads proliferated on YouTube, featuring AI-manipulated videos and images of Sadhguru promoting fake investment schemes or falsely claiming his arrest. These clickbait tactics, which violate Google’s own policies against negative event-based ads (e.g., arrests or deaths), direct unsuspecting users to phishing sites designed to steal personal and financial data.
Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora’s single-judge bench, on October 14, 2025, reiterated the urgency, mandating Google to:
- Deploy its technology to proactively detect and block such ads.
- File an affidavit detailing any limitations or objections to implementing these tools.
- Engage in joint discussions with Isha Foundation to devise a sustainable solution, reducing the need for repeated takedown requests.
The court emphasized compliance with intermediary guidelines, which require tech-based automated mechanisms to identify recurring violations akin to previously removed content.
Impact on Public Trust and Isha Foundation’s Response
These deepfakes have sown widespread confusion and anxiety, with thousands of volunteers and followers contacting Isha to verify the false arrest rumors. Such orchestrated misinformation undermines Sadhguru’s global initiatives, erodes public trust, and threatens the integrity of digital discourse.
Isha Foundation remains proactive, urging the public to:
- Stay vigilant against suspicious content.
- Report fake YouTube ads or videos claiming Sadhguru’s arrest as “scam” or “misleading.”
- Verify information through official channels to avoid falling victim to fraud.
This development underscores the evolving legal landscape around AI ethics, deepfakes, and platform accountability in India.
Key Takeaways
Call to Action: Users must play a role in flagging deceptive material to foster a safer online ecosystem.
Legal Precedent: Reinforces personality rights in the digital age and mandates tech-driven moderation.
Broader Implications: Signals stricter scrutiny on Big Tech for combating misinformation, especially AI-generated content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What specific action did the Delhi High Court take against Google regarding Sadhguru’s deepfake ads?
The court ordered Google to actively use its AI and detection technology to prevent and remove misleading advertisements featuring Sadhguru’s manipulated images and videos, including false claims of his arrest. It also required Google to collaborate with Isha Foundation for long-term solutions and submit an affidavit on any technical limitations.
2. Why are these fake ads about Sadhguru’s ‘arrest’ a major concern?
These AI deepfakes exploit public trust in Sadhguru to promote scams, leading users to fraudulent sites that steal data or push fake investments. They’ve caused mass confusion, with thousands seeking verification, and violate Google’s policies while damaging his reputation and digital safety.
3. How can individuals report and avoid falling for these Sadhguru deepfake scams on YouTube?
Report suspicious videos or ads directly on YouTube by selecting “scam” or “misleading” as the reason. Always cross-verify claims via official Isha Foundation channels, avoid clicking dubious links, and enable content filters. Staying informed helps protect against such evolving digital threats.