Nitin Gadkari Takes Legal Action Over Deepfake Videos Linked to Ethanol Policy

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has taken legal action against deepfake videos and misleading social media posts that falsely link him and his family to the E20 ethanol blending policy. The Bombay High Court has accepted his petition, which seeks to halt the circulation of these defamatory materials. Gadkari argues that the allegations are baseless and aim to mislead the public. He emphasizes that the E20 initiative is under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, not his ministry. The lawsuit seeks the removal of the content and actions against those responsible for its creation. This initiative is part of the government's broader strategy to enhance energy security and reduce carbon emissions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 15:17 IST

Legal Battle Against Defamation

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has filed a defamation lawsuit in the Bombay High Court against misleading deepfake videos and social media posts that falsely associate him and his family with the government's E20 ethanol blending initiative.

The court has accepted his petition and set a date for a hearing regarding his request for immediate relief. Gadkari is seeking a ban on the distribution of the contentious material.

In his legal action, he has named social media platforms Meta, which operates Facebook and Instagram, along with X as parties involved in the case.

The petition claims that numerous posts and videos circulating online inaccurately suggest that Gadkari and his relatives have profited from the ethanol blending policy.

Gadkari has labeled these accusations as "entirely unfounded, false, and defamatory," asserting that they are intended to mislead the public and tarnish his reputation.

He pointed out that the E20 ethanol blending program is managed by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, not the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, rendering the allegations factually incorrect.

The minister argues that the misleading social media content aims to fabricate a narrative that wrongfully links him to policy decisions and alleged personal benefits.

Gadkari is requesting the court to order the prompt removal of the deepfake videos and related posts from online platforms.

Additionally, he seeks to prevent any further publication, sharing, or promotion of the defamatory content and calls for action against those responsible for creating and spreading the false information.

The E20 initiative is a significant aspect of the government's energy transition strategy, consisting of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol, aimed at decreasing India's reliance on imported crude oil, reducing vehicle emissions, and bolstering domestic biofuel production.

The government has been advocating for ethanol blending as part of its strategy to enhance energy security and minimize the nation's carbon footprint.