Modi faces fresh controversy over ‘AI-Generated’ award certificate

NEW DEHLI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has found himself at the center of a fresh political controversy after receiving a newly created national honour during his visit to Seychelles, with critics alleging the award certificate appeared to contain spelling mistakes and signs of being generated using artificial intelligence.

During his visit to the Indian Ocean island nation, Seychelles President Patrick Herminie presented Modi with the Guardian of the Blue Horizon award, describing it as one of the country’s highest honours.

However, the award quickly came under scrutiny after images of the certificate circulated online. Observers pointed out that the document misspelled the words “Republic” and “Seychelles.” Reports also claimed the honour had been established only three days before Modi’s arrival, making him its first-ever recipient.

The controversy intensified after users on social media alleged that AI-detection software identified the certificate as being AI-generated.

India’s opposition Congress party criticized the development, with party leaders accusing the prime minister of eagerly accepting honours regardless of their credibility. BJP leaders, however, defended the recognition, calling it a proud moment for India and saying the award acknowledged Modi’s environmental and global leadership.

Responding to the criticism, Seychelles’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that an early working draft of the certificate had been circulated by mistake. The ministry clarified that an authentic and officially approved version had since been issued and insisted that the Guardian of the Blue Horizon distinction is genuine.

The episode has renewed debate over the growing number of international honours received by Modi during his time in office. Last month, during his visit to Israel, the Israeli parliament introduced the Medal of the Knesset, which was presented to Modi as its inaugural recipient.

Similarly, in 2019, Modi became the first recipient of India’s Philip Kotler Presidential Award, announced as an annual honour for world leaders, although no subsequent recipients have been named.

Political analysts say such recognitions have become a recurring feature of Modi’s foreign visits. Critics argue they are used to reinforce his global image among supporters, while the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party maintains that the awards reflect India’s growing international influence and Modi’s stature on the world stage.