Delhi HC Bans Piracy of Drishyam: The Conclusion
The Delhi High Court has restrained nine websites from streaming or downloading Digital18's film Drishyam: The Conclusion to combat illegal piracy.
In a major crackdown on digital piracy, the Delhi High Court has stepped in to protect the upcoming film Drishyam: The Conclusion. The court has issued a restraining order against nine specific websites, prohibiting them from hosting, streaming, or allowing anyone to download the movie without official authorization.
Protecting Digital18’s Intellectual Property
The legal action was initiated by Digital18 Media Private Limited to safeguard its copyrighted content. Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav, presiding over the matter, noted that based on the initial evidence presented, the plaintiff had established a strong case for an ad-interim ex parte injunction. The court emphasized that the financial damage caused by piracy might be impossible to fully rectify through monetary compensation alone.
The lawsuit targeted nine identified websites and several unknown entities suspected of distributing copyrighted material illegally. Digital18 expressed serious concerns that these platforms, which were allegedly involved in the piracy of Jolly LLB 3, would target Drishyam: The Conclusion immediately following its scheduled release on October 2.
Strict Directives for Intermediaries and Authorities
To ensure the order is effective, the court has laid down strict timelines and responsibilities:
- Immediate Suspension: Identified defendants and intermediaries must suspend, block, or deactivate the relevant domain names within 72 hours of being notified.
- Streaming Ban: The nine defendants and their associates are strictly forbidden from communicating or making the film available through any online platform.
- Government Oversight: Government authorities have been directed to monitor and ensure that these legal orders are strictly followed.
Furthermore, the court has granted Digital18 the flexibility to take further action. If new piracy websites or individuals emerge that were not part of the original lawsuit, the company is permitted to approach domain name registrars, internet service providers, and relevant government departments to demand immediate intervention.