Woman MLA Ritu Banawat Levels Serious Allegations Against Tina Dabi Administration Over Deepfake Video Case

Barmer: The Barmer district administration is once again under scrutiny, this time over a deepfake video case involving MLA Dr. Ritu Banawat. Dr. Banawat has accused the district administration of acting unjustly in the matter, raising serious questions about the impartiality of the investigation.

Allegations against the administration
The controversy dates back to January 2024, when a deepfake video using MLA Ritu Banawat’s name and photo surfaced. Dr. Banawat claims that the main accused in the case, Dinesh Manju, was recently honored by the Barmer district administration during the Republic Day celebrations. She described this as not only an injustice to the victim but also a blow to the credibility and fairness of the ongoing investigation.

In a video statement, the MLA said she intends to raise the issue in the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. She questioned the basis on which an individual facing serious allegations could be publicly honored, adding that such actions send the wrong message to society and weaken the rights of victims.

Response from the accused
Dinesh Manju, the accused, has denied all allegations. He stated that being accused does not make one guilty and highlighted his long-standing work in environmental protection, khejri tree conservation, and wildlife preservation. He also warned of potential defamation proceedings against those spreading accusations.

The matter has reignited debates on administrative accountability and justice for victims, with observers pointing out the potential impact of such controversies on public trust.