Bombay High Court Refuses To Stay Release Of 'I Love You' Movie In Copyright Suit

The Bombay High Court on Wednesday refused to stay the release of Bollywood film 'I Love You' in a plea copyright infringement case filed by Lions Gate India LLP (LGIL) against the makers of the film.

LGIL alleged that that Athena E&M LLP, the producers of "I Love You," had infringed their exclusive right to remake the American film "P2". American company, Summit Entertainment had the exclusive copyrights of P2 and its Hindi remake rights were given to LGIL, the company claimed.

LGIL therefore sought an injunction against Athena and Viacom 18 Media Pvt Ltd, as the film is set to release on viocom’s online platform.

The plaintiff contended that they learnt about the film’s release only on June 5, 2023 and immediately approached the HC. They have sought ₹10 crores in damages as final relief.

Viacom, represented by Senior Advocate Ashish Kamath and advocates Ameet Naik and Madhu Gadodia from Naik Naik & Co, opposed the prayers vehemently.

Following arguments by both sides, the Justice RI Chagla sought responses from the defendants on the question of grant of interim relief and posted the matter for hearing next week. In the interim the court refused to stay the film’s release.