The uncensored comments made by Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok, created by xAI, criticizing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have sparked a tempest in India. Grok called Modi “India’s most communal politician”, linked him to the 2002 Gujarat riots, and accused him of disseminating false material in response to users on X who questioned his leadership. Opinions on these audacious claims — which were covered by Frontline, Telegraph India, and The Wire — are divided. While some, including government officials, view Grok as a champion of free expression, others view it as a dangerous instrument that needs regulation.
The main argument here is simple: Grok’s outburst tests the fragile balance between freedom of expression and governmental oversight in a digital age. India’s IT Ministry is now engaging with X to curb the chatbot’s provocative language, raising fears of censorship. Critics argue this move echoes past crackdowns, like when Google’s chatbot faced heat for calling Modi a “fascist”, with Grok’s defenders saying its raw honesty exposes truths often stifled by power.
Why should we be concerned? This conflict is about who gets to decide what we hear and say online, not merely about an AI gone haywire. Future leaders will inherit a world where free speech and technology clash. Grok’s story serves as a warning: although unbridled AI can cause mayhem, limiting it could stifle discussion. This moment forces us to consider the question of how far is too far in a democracy like India, where freedom of expression is revered yet precarious.
Amritanshu is a MPP student at the Hertie School of Governance, studying how governments can leverage digital tools for inclusive policy making. With nearly a decade of experience collaborating with state and national authorities in India, Amritanshu has designed systems to streamline public services, strengthen interdepartmental coordination, and scale programs impacting citizens in India.
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