The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has categorically dismissed as fake an AI-generated deepfake video being circulated by Pakistan-based propaganda accounts, falsely claiming that former Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi resigned in protest and handed over command to General Dhiraj Seth.
Issuing a fact check, PIB clarified that General Upendra Dwivedi never made any such statement. It described the viral clip as a digitally manipulated deepfake created solely to mislead the public and fuel a coordinated disinformation campaign.
PIB further stated that the transition in the office of the Chief of the Army Staff was a routine and institutional process carried out strictly in accordance with established tenure norms and laid-down procedures following General Dwivedi's superannuation after more than four decades of distinguished service.
Calling out the malicious intent behind the viral content, PIB said Pakistan-based propaganda handles are deliberately circulating fabricated and AI-manipulated videos to spread false narratives, create confusion, and undermine public trust. The fact-checking agency urged citizens to rely only on verified official sources and avoid sharing unverified content designed to amplify misinformation.
General Dhiraj Seth assumes office as new Chief of the Army Staff
General Dhiraj Seth officially took over as the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) on Tuesday, becoming the 31st head of the Indian Army. He succeeds General Upendra Dwivedi, who retired after serving the armed forces for more than four decades.
The leadership change comes at a crucial time for the Army, which is focusing on becoming more self-reliant, technologically advanced and prepared to meet evolving security challenges along the country's borders.
Before assuming the Army's top post, General Seth was serving as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff. A graduate of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, he was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in December 1986.
Over a military career spanning nearly 40 years, General Seth has gained wide-ranging experience in operational, strategic, institutional and capability development roles. He has held several key appointments that contributed to the Army's modernisation plans, long-term force development and capability enhancement.
One of the highlights of his career is the rare distinction of leading two operational Army commands along the western front. After being promoted to the rank of Army Commander, he served as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Command in Jaipur and later the Southern Command.
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