Ahmedabad: Meta has blocked the official Facebook and Instagram accounts of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Gujarat unit, reportedly for violating copyright rules on digital platforms. The action, which came just a day before the local elections in the state, was not triggered by a single instance but was taken due to repeated violations of copyright policies over time.

According to available information, AAP Gujarat used scenes from popular Gujarati films such as Saheb and Chello Divas in its political campaign posts on social media without obtaining permission. Videos of well-known actors, including Malhar Thakar, Yash Soni, and Prapti Ajwalia, were allegedly edited or dubbed and used in a misleading manner.

The incident has sparked controversy, with concerns being raised over the misuse of creative content and the violation of artists’ rights.

Gujarati film actor Hiten Kumar has expressed strong displeasure over the issue. He said that artists invest significant time and effort in their work, and any misuse of such content for political or commercial purposes is unacceptable.

Kumar has also urged the police to take strict action against those responsible. In an Instagram video, he said, “We have been working in Gujarati cinema for decades and creating films with great effort. However, it has recently been seen that some political groups and others are misusing film scenes by editing or dubbing them for their own purposes. This is completely wrong. We request the Gujarat Police Crime Department to take strict action so that such misuse is stopped and people are not misled.”

The development has raised concerns over ethical practices in political digital campaigning. The alleged unauthorised use of film content and artists’ material has triggered criticism, with questions being raised about the party’s campaign methods and adherence to intellectual property laws. DeshGujarat