YouTube channel operator in the dock for morphed video of Chiranjeevi

Hyderabad: A YouTube channel operator has been booked for allegedly circulating false information by uploading a morphed video of actor Chiranjeevi.

In his complaint to the Jubilee Hills police on May 21, advocate M Ramakrishna alleged that YouTube channel “moviemystery-u7z” intentionally created and circulated morphed visuals portraying Chiranjeevi with a bald head and an unhealthy appearance. “The morphed visuals were accompanied by captions and fabricated statements that he lost 60 kilograms due to an unknown illness. The claims were baseless, malicious and not supported by any authentic medical source or official confirmation,” the complainant, a resident of Srinagar Colony, alleged.

The complainant also alleged the channel was created to damage the actor’s reputation, cause emotional distress among fans and attract attention through sensational content. He submitted screenshots, video details and channel information to police.

Since the allegations were non-cognisable in nature, police referred the complaint to court. On May 25, based on court’s permission, Jubilee Hills police have registered a case under Section 352 (Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against the YouTube channel operator. Police will seek details of the handle from YouTube to identify the accused.