Assam CM vows action against AI-generated caller tune after language controversy

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced today he would seek central government intervention regarding AI-generated voice translations in official communications, following widespread criticism of a cybercrime awareness caller tune.

"I will write a letter to the centre to not allow translation using AI because it looks and sounds bad," Sarma stated, acknowledging concerns about the artificial nature of the voice. The Chief Minister expressed uncertainty about the origin of the controversial caller tune.

The controversy erupted after Dr Samujjal Bhattacharjya, Chief Advisor of the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) and North East Students' Organisation (NESO), condemned the caller tune's Assamese pronunciation on January 6. Through his X (formerly Twitter) platform, Bhattacharjya described the pronunciation as "severely butchered" and demanded immediate action.

"This is unacceptable for a language with such rich heritage and cultural significance," Bhattacharjya wrote, emphasising that the poor pronunciation particularly stings following Assamese's recent designation as a Classical Language.

The timing of this controversy is particularly sensitive as it follows the prestigious Classical Language status recently granted to Assamese, recognising its historical importance and rich literary tradition. Bhattacharjya expressed dismay at seeing the language's dignity compromised through poor AI implementation.