The INDIA Bloc rally at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi, held on November 1, 2026, was supposed to showcase a massive turnout of 10 lakh supporters. However, the following day, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju accused the Congress party of using AI-generated imagery to falsely depict a large crowd. Rijiju shared a photo showing Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi on stage, with AI-created crowd elements that appeared unconvincing.
The controversy stems from differing claims of attendance. While Congress asserted 10 lakh attendees, BJP leaders, including Kiren Rijiju and Sambit Patra, argued that only around 28,000 people actually attended. Sambit Patra presented video evidence showing 40% of the venue was vacant, contradicting Congress’s claims.
Rijiju highlighted that the AI-generated photo of the rally was not properly executed. He noted that the staged crowd, meant to depict a packed venue, did not align with the actual stage setup, revealing the AI’s limitations. Rijiju emphasized that Congress failed even in creating convincing fake visuals, questioning the party’s ability to sustain such deception.
BJP officials pointed out that only 28,000 chairs were arranged, yet Congress claimed a turnout of 10 lakh.
People were gathered in yesterday's rally in Ramleela maidan Delhi against vote chori and Save democracy. Delhi 📍 https://t.co/NckJUFMtD9
The rally concluded at 4:30 PM, with a clearance deadline of 5 PM. BJP officials pointed out that only 28,000 chairs were arranged, yet Congress claimed a turnout of 10 lakh.
While Congress did not respond directly to the AI-photo accusations, Rahul Gandhi shared drone footage of a separate rally, emphasizing democratic principles and truth. His statement underscored the broader political debate over transparency and electoral integrity.
- Kiren Rijiju: Criticized Congress for AI misuse, stating their fake narrative team failed to properly prepare even basic AI-generated images. - Sambit Patra: Accused Congress of misleading voters with attendance figures, highlighting the reality of sparse attendance. - Rahul Gandhi: Supported democratic values, though without direct rebuttal to the AI-photo claims.