AI-Generated Books, Fake Authors? Periyar Arivulagam Row Escalates In Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu’s newly inaugurated Periyar Arivulagam library has become the latest flashpoint between the ruling TVK and Opposition DMK. Allegations of irregularities in book procurement include questionable titles, incorrect author credits, suspected AI-generated content and books allegedly bought at inflated prices. The Madras High Court has also questioned the rejection of a Tamil translation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat. More than 160 writers, researchers and publishers have demanded an independent probe. While the DMK has called for an investigation, the TVK government has blamed the previous administration for the alleged irregularities. Here’s why the controversy is escalating.