A highly circulated photo claiming a tiger sighting in Mangrul village, Junnar taluka, was found to be AI-generated after a Forest Department probe. Officials identified the source and warned of strict action against spreading false information that caused panic in the local community.
The Maharashtra Forest Department has confirmed that a viral image purportedly showing a tiger wandering in a farm field in Mangrul village, Junnar taluka, Pune district, is artificially generated using AI tools. The investigation traced the origin of the image to Dattatray Vinayak Minde of Mangrul village, Aurangabad district, who admitted in a written statement that the photo was not genuine.
This photo had caused widespread panic and fear among villagers who were already anxious due to recent wild animal activity in the region. Forest officials stressed that such misinformation leads to unnecessary public distress and social disharmony.
The department urged citizens to verify the authenticity of wildlife sightings before sharing them on social media and advised media outlets and online platforms to practice responsible reporting. Officials warned that spreading unverified information could lead to legal consequences as they proceed with notices and necessary actions against those involved.
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Key Highlights
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Viral tiger photo from Mangrul village, Junnar, confirmed as AI-generated
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Source identified as Dattatray Vinayak Minde who admitted image falsity
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Misinformation caused panic in a community already concerned with leopard activity
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Forest Department urges public and media to verify information before sharing
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Officials warn of strict actions against spreading false wildlife news
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Emphasis on responsible reporting to prevent public unrest and social disharmony
This incident highlights the challenges posed by AI-generated misinformation and the critical importance of verifying facts in the digital age.
Source: Maharashtra Forest Department, Indian Express, Mid-Day, Free Press Journal