Delhi High Court Permanently Restrains Rogue Websites From Illegally Streaming Shows, Films Broadcasted On Disney Hotstar

The Delhi High Court has permanently restrained 50 rogue websites from illegally streaming various television shows, TV series and movies broadcasted on OTT platform Disney plus Hotstar.

Justice C Hari Shankar observed that prima facie, exclusive rights to stream or telecast the content contained in the 26 shows and films vests in the platform and not others.

The court was hearing a suit moved by Star India Private Limited and Disney Plus Hotstar against the rogue websites alleging that they were engaged in piracy of their copyrighted content.

The 26 shows and films are Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlaata Hai, Ghum Hai Kisi Ke Pyaar Meiin, Anupamaa, Yeh Hai Chahatein, Imlie, Saath Nibhaana Saathiya 2, Aapki Nazron Ne Samjha, Pandya Store, Mehndi Hai Rachne Waali, Zindagi Mere Ghar Aana, Yeh Rishtey Hain Pyaar Ke, Ek Hazaroon Mein Meri Behna Hai, Lakshmi Ghar Aayi, Mann Ki Awaaz Pratigya 2, RadhaKrishn - Punar Milan, City of Dreams (2 Seasons), Grahan, November Story, Ok Computer, 1232 Kms, Live Telecast, Triples, Hundred, Special Ops, Roar of the Lion and 1962: War in the Hills.

The court in August 2021 had passed an ad interim injunction order against the rogue websites. None of the defendants were represented through a counsel in the proceedings.

While decreeing the suit, Justice Shankar said that “it is but natural” that the defendants being rouge entities, who are involved only in the business of unauthorised broadcasting of television shows, films and web series in which others hold copyright, have chosen not to appear before the court.

“This is not a singular phenomenon. It is observed by this Court in several matters where such rouge websites surface, that they do not turn up to contest the suit. Their prevailing philosophy appears to be to make hay while the sun shines,” the court said.

Advocates Angad S. Makkar and Yatinder Garg appeared for the plaintiffs.

Advocates Apoorv Kurup, Kirtedhadicha and Shivansh appeared for the defendants.

Title: STAR INDIA PVT LTD & ANR. v. YODESISERIAL.SU & ORS

Citation:2023 LiveLaw (Del) 930

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