The city’s outskirts are witnessing unusual scenes, with groups of people gathering along roadsides and anxiously staring into the distance. What begins as curiosity often turns into panic, as murmurs of “Cheetah hai!” spread rapidly, attracting larger crowds.
Fear has begun to grip the city following a series of leopard attacks reported in the Pardi area. Although confirmed sightings and attacks have remained limited to the outskirts—from Gorewada to the newly affected Pardi belt—social media has been flooded with posts claiming leopard presence in various parts of the city.
Many of these posts, however, are based on AI-generated images circulated by miscreants. In several instances, ‘cheetah’ images have been falsely shared as leopard sightings. Similar misleading visuals have surfaced from areas including Kamptee, Nandanvan and New Narsala. Gullible citizens often forward these graphics to family and friends, inadvertently amplifying fear and anxiety among residents.
According to a media report, Deputy commissioner of police (cybercrime) Lohit Matani said police are closely monitoring the situation. “We are keeping a watch on such Al-generated graphics and are taking swift action. These posts are being deleted, and notices are being issued to individuals found circulating misleading images,” he said.
The misinformation has had a visible impact on daily life, with many people avoiding venturing out at night. Some residents have even considered relocating due to the perceived threat.
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