The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) lodged a police complaint after AI-generated images and videos of Lord Jagannath surfaced on social media and sparked outrage among devotees.
The complaint, filed at the Singhadwar police station against a social media account named vishvrajcreation, accuses the account of misrepresenting the deity and violating temple traditions.
Moreover, SJTA stated that the circulation of such content caused deep anguish among worshippers and disturbed religious harmony. The Special Security Officer of the temple administration submitted the complaint, emphasising that the visuals hurt the sentiments of devotees and triggered widespread resentment.
Jagannath culture researcher Bhaskar Mishra explained that one of the videos falsely showed milk being poured over Lord Jagannath in front of the temple with the help of a crane. He clarified that the scene had no connection with established rituals and was entirely imaginary. Furthermore, Mishra stressed that the circulation of such fabricated visuals deeply hurt the emotions of devotees who revere the deity.
Meanwhile, the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee decided to amend existing legal provisions to address such incidents. The proposed changes aim to clearly define the circulation of fabricated religious visuals as an offence. In addition, the committee plans to introduce stricter punishment to prevent misuse of technology in matters linked to faith.
