The Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development says a written request has been sent to Derana Television seeking an official clarification and correction regarding the use of an artificial intelligence (AI)-generated image of Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe in a video broadcast in connection with the channel’s Derana 360 program.

The letter was sent by the Deputy Minister’s Media Secretary.

The letter states as follows:

“It has come to our attention that the photograph displayed and commented on by former Cabinet Minister Wimal Weerawansa during the program in question was not the actual selfie photograph taken by the Deputy Minister himself, but an image generated using AI technology. Using an artificially generated image instead of an authentic photograph can alter public understanding of an incident and carries the risk of damaging an individual’s reputation. In particular, the use of such images when discussing sensitive issues relating to race and religion may mislead the public or potentially inflame racist and religious tensions within society.

Furthermore, reasonable questions arise regarding the intervention of the program’s presenter when the image was displayed, particularly as to whether clarification was sought about its authenticity or its source verified. Our emphasis on this matter is not on restricting freedom of political expression, but on the essential need to verify the authenticity of the visuals and information used in expressing such views and to safeguard responsible media practices. Accordingly, an official letter has been sent to Derana Television requesting that a proper investigation be conducted into the authenticity and source of the image; that the necessary corrections be made to the relevant video; that a clear correction be issued to the public through the Derana 360 programme itself; and that a written explanation be provided regarding the steps being taken in this regard.“When false information or misleading visuals are disseminated to the public, correcting them is an essential part of media responsibility. We expect the media institution concerned to take prompt and responsible action to protect the public’s right to access truthful information and to safeguard trust in the media.”