Daijiworld Media Network – Beltangady
Beltangady, July 12: In a dramatic development in the Dharmasthala police case (Crime No 35/2025), a fresh case was registered on July 11, triggering two separate investigations—one targeting misleading public statements made at a press conference and the other against a YouTuber accused of spreading an AI-generated fake video to inflame public sentiment.
Lawyer’s press statement questioned
The first probe focuses on the lawyer representing the complainant and key witness, who addressed the media on July 11. According to police, several claims made during the press conference are factually incorrect and potentially misleading to the public. Authorities are verifying the accuracy of these remarks and whether they may have compromised the legal process.
Dharmasthala police station (file photo)
SIT demand raises eyebrows
The second line of investigation involves a growing demand by certain groups —claiming to act in the public interest—for either the removal of the current investigating officer or the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
Police are now examining whether these demands were made with the knowledge or support of the complainant’s legal team, and what the official stance of the complainant is regarding such calls.
Officials say establishing clarity on this matter is crucial to maintaining transparency and avoiding external influence on the ongoing investigation.
YouTuber faces FIR over AI-generated misinformation
In a parallel and serious development, a YouTuber named Sameer M D has been booked for allegedly creating and publishing a false, AI-generated video related to the case.
The video, which aired on his YouTube channel, is said to include fabricated claims and distorted representations of the complainant and the case—going beyond the content shared in court or police records. Authorities believe the video was crafted with the intention of misleading the public and inciting unrest.
As a result, a new FIR has been registered at Dharmasthala police station under Crime No. 42/2025, invoking multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023):
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Section 192: False evidence or information
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Section 240: Acts that may incite public disorder
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Section 353(1)(b): Obstruction of lawful authority or process
Police issue warning against misinformation
Police have confirmed that both investigations are actively underway, and appropriate legal action will follow based on the evidence. Authorities have also issued a stern warning against the creation and dissemination of misleading or AI-generated content, especially on sensitive legal matters.
“Spreading misinformation using digital tools like AI to provoke public unrest is a serious offence. We are treating it with the urgency and seriousness it warrants,” a senior police officer stated.