Election Commission to Frame AI Guidelines for Polls, Mandatory Disclosure of AI Content

New Delhi: The role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in election campaigns is rapidly growing, and in light of this, the Election Commission is creating guidelines to prevent its misuse while promoting its beneficial use. A glimpse of this can be seen in the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections. Sources have stated that political parties, media, and social media platforms will be required to disclose any AI-generated content used. The rules and methods for using AI in campaigns will be clearly defined. Specific guidelines are being formulated for deep fake videos and audio content, aiming to ensure that AI-generated material is not used to confuse voters or influence their choices unfairly. Moreover, efforts will be made to ensure that voter privacy or the impartiality of their choices is not compromised.

Over 50 Million Robo Calls During Lok Sabha Elections

In light of the AI report on global election tracking, the Commission’s move is significant. It reveals that the use of AI in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections was 10% higher than in the American elections and 30% more than in the British elections. The report by Future Shift Labs tracks AI use in elections across 74 countries. In India, the highest usage was recorded at 80%. Over 50 million robo calls were made using AI. The content of these deep fake calls was generated in the voices of candidates, and deep fake campaign material was created in 22 languages.

Possible Steps for Regulation

• Disclosure of Deep Fake Content: Deep fake technology can be used to create synthetic content that appears real. However, it is important to clarify when the content is a deep fake.
• Standards for Data Use in Election Apps: There will be established standards for the analysis and use of data within election-related applications.
• Ban on Misleading Content: Any videos created to mock or mislead opponents may be prohibited.
• Protection Against Targeting Individuals in Rallies: While content strategies could be derived from the gestures of people attending rallies, identifying individuals attending an opponent’s rally to target them would be prohibited.
• This proactive approach is being implemented to ensure fair and transparent elections while maintaining the integrity of the voting process.