The Delhi High Court has approved the distribution of Ranbir Kapoor’s Shamshera via OTT platforms on the condition that Yash Raj Films deposit one crore with its registry. The ruling was issued by Justice Jyoti Singh in response to a case filed by Bikramjeet Singh Bhullar alleging infringement of his copyright in the filmmakers’ literary work ‘Kabu na chhadein Khet.’
Watch the trailer now –
The judge noted in the August 18 order that the film was released in theatres last month and was scheduled to be released on OTT platforms on Friday; thus, to balance the equities between the parties, it would be appropriate to allow the film’s release on OTT platforms subject to a deposit of one crore by August 22.
If the money is not submitted on time, the court will issue an injunction prohibiting the film from being re-aired on OTT platforms beginning August 23. Considering the totality of the circumstances, as well as the fact that the impugned film has already been released in theatres and is scheduled to be released on the OTT Platforms tomorrow, i.e. 19.08.2022, in my opinion, it would be appropriate at this stage, in order to balance the equities between the parties, to permit Defendant No. 1 to release the impugned film Shamshera, on the OTT Platforms.
It is made clear that if the money is not deposited within the timetable allowed by this Court, an injunction shall operate against the future transmission of the movie on the OTT Platforms with effect from 23.08.2022, the statement continued.The plaintiff objected to the film’s publication on OTT platforms, claiming that it violated his copyright by creating a substantial replica of his work, as well as a flagrant and dishonest breach of confidence.
The defendant filmmakers requested the court to allow the film’s publication on OTT platforms, claiming that doing so would contravene their contractual duties to other parties. It was also said that they would suffer irreparable harm, and that the plaintiff can always be reimbursed financially if he wins.
