A STUDY ON DEEPFAKE TECHNOLOGY AND WOMEN'S DIGNITY

Deepfake technology is an emerging application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that enables the creation or manipulation of images, videos and audio to produce realistic representations of individuals. Although this technology has beneficial applications in entertainment, education, research and digital communication, its misuse has created serious legal and social concerns. One of the major concerns is the creation and distribution of non-consensual intimate images and videos using women's faces or identities. Such misuse may violate women's dignity, privacy, personal autonomy and reputation, while also exposing them to humiliation, harassment, emotional distress and social discrimination. This study examines the relationship between deepfake technology and women's dignity through the perspective of feminist jurisprudence. It analyses relevant constitutional protections, provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, applicable intermediary rules and selected international legal instruments. The study also compares AI-generated deepfakes with traditional Photoshop-based image manipulation to understand their differences and the legal challenges associated with consent, authenticity, detection, investigation and content removal. The study highlights the importance of a gender-sensitive and victim-centred legal response. It identifies practical difficulties in applying existing laws, obtaining timely remedies and preventing the repeated circulation of harmful synthetic content. It recommends stronger implementation of existing legal protections, improved platform accountability, effective complaint mechanisms, better digital forensic support and increased public awareness. The study concludes that protecting women's dignity in the digital age requires a balanced approach that addresses harmful uses of AI while respecting fundamental rights and legitimate technological innovation.