The Bombay High Court has directed internet service providers and online platforms to take down pirated content from Ranbir Kapoor-starrer Ramayana within three hours of receiving a notice, after infringing material began surfacing across multiple platforms following the film's theatrical release on November 5.
Justice Ashish S. Chavan passed the directions on November 6 in a follow-up application filed by Godpower Media Private Limited, which had secured anti-piracy protection for the film from the Court on November 2.
Godpower Media submitted that despite a notice and reminder issued on November 4, several internet service providers and platforms had not confirmed that they would act immediately on takedown requests.
It was argued that even a delay of a few hours could allow pirated content to spread rapidly and beyond the reach of takedown measures.
Finding the plaintiff's concern genuine, Justice Chavan observed that “after the theatrical release of the Suit Film the infringing contents have surfaced across multiple platforms.”
The Court directed the internet service providers and platform defendants to act on every takedown or blocking notice issued by the plaintiff or its authorised representative immediately, and in any event within three hours of receipt.
They have also been directed to confirm in writing that they have systems and personnel in place to comply with the order in real time, and to provide the contact details of a designated nodal officer for immediate response.
The directions are subject to further orders by the regular bench.
The matter is next listed for December 16.
For Godpower Media: Senior Advocate Ashish Kamat with Rashmin Khandekar, Ameet Naik, Madhu Gadodia, Anand Mohan, Unnati Gambani, Vinayika Shahi, Parth Shah and Amartya Mody i/b Anand and Naik
For Defendant: Advocate Akshay Ayush with Sneha Jaisingh i/b Bharucha & Partners for the Defendant No.7