In a significant development, Google has formally apologized to the Indian government for the unreliable and unsubstantiated comments made by its AI platform, Gemini, regarding PM Modi. Minister of State for IT & Electronics, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, shared that Google acknowledged the platform’s unreliability and issued a formal apology to the government in response to a notice seeking an explanation for Gemini’s questionable results.
Government’s Critique of AI Platforms
The government, dissatisfied with Google’s admission, criticized a section of AI platforms, including Gemini, for providing consumer solutions even during trial phases. Minister Chandrasekhar expressed concern over India being used as a testing ground for AI platforms that have faced global criticism for disseminating biased, misinformed, or unverified results.
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PM Modi – AI Platforms Require Permits
As a response to the situation, the government announced new regulations stipulating that AI platforms, like Gemini, will now require a permit from the state to operate within the country. Minister Chandrasekhar dismissed Google’s apology, emphasizing that the platform’s unreliability is not a defensible position.
Government’s Stance on Testing and Disclosures
Minister Chandrasekhar asserted that India should not be considered a testing ground for under-developed platforms, particularly when they fail to make proper disclosures to users. He emphasized the need for explicit information in consent forms and terms of use, declaring that platforms should inform users about potential errors, unreliability, and the risk of producing unlawful content.
PM Modi – Legal Consequences for AI Platforms
The minister highlighted that AI platforms operating in India can face legal consequences under Indian IT and criminal laws for violations and dissemination of incorrect information. He referenced the existing legal framework, stating that platforms cannot use unreliability as a defense against prosecution.
Addressing Gemini’s Results
Gemini’s unverified and unsubstantiated results came under severe criticism from the government, characterized as “reckless, irresponsible, and certainly disrespecting” toward Indian consumers. Minister Chandrasekhar declared that the government would take measures to prevent platforms from taking Indian digital citizens for granted.
PM Modi – Government Advisory for AI-Led Startups
In a related move, the government issued an advisory for AI-led startups, emphasizing the importance of labeling unverified information as potentially false and error-prone. This advisory comes in the wake of previous concerns about deepfakes, underlining the government’s commitment to regulating AI in the country.
