The Delhi High Court has ordered Meta to remove specified AI deepfakes and fabricated content targeting actor and Indian parliament member Kangana Ranaut within 72 hours after she communicates the order.
Justice Vikas Mahajan’s October 8 order in Kangana Ranaut v. Meta Platforms Inc. & Ors., CS(COMM) 1100/2026, grants ex parte, ad-interim relief. It is a preliminary injunction, with liability and damages unresolved.
Ranaut alleged unauthorized impersonations, sexual deepfakes and false statements. The court found a strong prima facie case. It also directed Indian ministries to issue blocking directions for specified websites within 72 hours of receiving the order. Compliance affidavits are required within two weeks.
Ranaut can notify defendants of additional infringing links without bringing fresh proceedings. Defendants may seek clarification, and websites not primarily infringing may seek modification of the injunction.
A satirical meme was excluded because removal was not pressed at this stage. That does not establish a general ruling on satire. A procedural listing is set for December 4, with the court hearing scheduled for February 3, 2027.
Why it matters to media
The practical issue for broadcasters and digital publishers is how quickly a takedown obligation can follow a disputed synthetic clip—and how an order can address replacement copies. Newsrooms should distinguish authentic recordings, allegations and verified findings when reporting these disputes.
This case concerns impersonation and personality rights. It does not resolve AI-training copyright questions or establish a worldwide rule for voice cloning.
RNN has not independently confirmed when Meta received the order or whether the specified removals have been completed.
Sources: Court order, hosted by LiveLaw; Bar & Bench reporting and alternate order copy.
General information, not legal advice. Prepared with AI assistance and checked against the cited court order.