The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a fresh advisory warning political parties against the irresponsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and synthetically generated content during elections.

The directive, dated October 24, 2025, shows the growing concern over the misuse of hyper-realistic digital content that could mislead voters and distort the electoral process.

In a notice addressed to all national and state-recognized political parties, the Commission stated that the “misuse of hyper-realistic synthetically generated information, including depicting political leaders making electorally sensitive messages, is contaminating the level-playing field.”

The ECI noted that such actions threaten the fairness and equality that form the foundation of democratic elections.

Also Read: IEBC Clarifies Controversial Notice Naming Candidates as Winners Ahead of By-Elections

Deepfake Threat Prompts Constitutional Action

The Commission stated that the use of AI technologies to create, modify, or transmit deceptive content poses a “deep threat” to voter trust and electoral integrity.

“Its ability to masquerade as truth can unwittingly trap political stakeholders into incorrect conclusions,” the advisory read, warning that misinformation generated through AI could severely damage public confidence.

Invoking its plenary powers under Article 324 of the Constitution, the ECI reiterated its authority to regulate electoral conduct.

It reminded parties of their legal obligations under the Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2021, and previous advisories issued on May 6, 2024, and January 16, 2025, which outlined ethical use of social media and labeling of synthetic content.

Mandatory Labeling and Disclosure Rules

Under the new directives, all political parties, candidates, and campaign representatives must ensure that any AI-generated or synthetically altered images, videos, or audio materials are clearly labeled.

The content must include a visible tag such as “AI-Generated,” “Digitally Enhanced,” or “Synthetic Content” covering at least 10% of the visible display area or duration.

For videos, this label must appear at the top of the screen.

Additionally, all such content must disclose the name of the entity responsible for its creation in the metadata or accompanying caption.

The ECI further ordered that no AI content should misrepresent any person’s appearance, identity, or voice without consent in a way that could deceive the electorate.

Also Read: Speaker Wetang’ula Vows to Fast-Track Election Laws Before 2027

Strict Compliance and Record-Keeping Mandated

Political parties are now required to maintain internal records of all AI-generated campaign materials, including details of the creator and timestamps, for verification when demanded by the Commission.

The directive also mandates that any misleading or manipulated content identified on official party handles must be removed within three hours of detection or notification.

The ECI stated that the directions would take immediate effect and remain applicable during all general and by-elections until further notice.

Signed by S. B. Joshi, Principal Secretary of the ECI, the advisory has also been circulated to all Chief Electoral Officers across States and Union Territories for enforcement and compliance.

Follow our WhatsApp Channel and WhatsApp Community for instant news updates

A Newsletter by the ECI On The Use of AI On Covering Elections. PHOTO/ ECI X