Thu Feb 12 06:35:49 UTC 2026: ### Assam BJP Sacks Social Media Co-Convenor Over Controversial AI-Generated Video

The Story: The Assam BJP has removed Ron Vikash Gaurav, a co-convenor of its social media team, following the upload of a now-deleted AI-generated video on the party’s official X handle. The video depicted Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma purportedly shooting at two individuals, one wearing a skull cap and another with a beard, accompanied by the caption “point-blank shot.” The video, uploaded on February 7, 2026, sparked significant political backlash.

The controversy escalated after the video was removed, with opposition parties accusing Mr. Sarma of inciting hatred and violence. Congress leaders filed a police complaint, prompting the police to register a case. Another complaint was filed by a BJP worker. AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi also filed a complaint with the Hyderabad Police, seeking criminal action against Mr. Sarma. The Chief Minister stated that he would accept arrest if necessary and reaffirmed his opposition to “Bangladeshi infiltrators.”

Key Points:

  • The Assam BJP removed social media co-convenor Ron Vikash Gaurav for unauthorizedly uploading a controversial AI-generated video.
  • The video featured Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma appearing to shoot at two individuals, sparking outrage.
  • The video was uploaded on February 7, 2026, and deleted after significant political backlash.
  • Police cases have been filed by both Congress leaders and a BJP worker.
  • Asaduddin Owaisi has also filed a complaint against Mr. Sarma.
  • The CM has stated he is prepared to be arrested and maintains his stance against “Bangladeshi infiltrators.”

Critical Analysis:
The historical context reveals an ongoing tension surrounding Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. Before the video controversy, there was already a pending plea against him in the Supreme Court for alleged hate speeches (Wed Feb 11 18:35:10 UTC 2026). This pre-existing legal challenge underscores a pattern of accusations regarding inciting speech. The AI-generated video controversy amplifies these concerns, suggesting a deliberate (or negligently allowed) effort to capitalize on and intensify existing social divisions. The fact that the video was released, then deleted, and then defended, suggests an initial calculation that backfired. The connection made by Gaurav Gogoi (Sun Feb 08 10:13:17 UTC 2026) to a Pakistani agent further exacerbates the polarizing nature of the conflict.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident highlights the dangers of AI-generated content being used to spread divisive narratives.
  • It underscores the need for stricter vetting processes within political parties’ social media teams, especially regarding sensitive content.
  • The event reveals the heightened political tensions in Assam, particularly concerning issues of religious identity and immigration.
  • The incident could potentially impact CM Sarma’s reputation and political standing, particularly given the ongoing legal challenges and the broad condemnation of the video.
  • The willingness of Owaisi to file a complaint in Hyderabad indicates the national implications of regional political actions.

Impact Analysis:
This event sequence has potentially significant long-term implications. Firstly, it elevates the scrutiny of hate speech and inciting content on social media platforms in India. The AI-generated nature of the video introduces a new dimension of concern, forcing a reevaluation of content moderation policies and the responsibility of political parties in preventing the spread of misinformation and hate. Secondly, this situation is likely to further polarize Assam’s political landscape, especially along communal lines, affecting future election dynamics and governance. The legal challenges against Mr. Sarma could escalate, leading to further political instability. Lastly, this incident might prompt legislative actions to regulate the use of AI in political campaigns and prevent the spread of harmful narratives, potentially reshaping the rules of engagement in Indian politics.

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