Introduction
The digital age has ushered in a new era of content creation, where news agencies and independent creators often find themselves at crossroads. A recent legal tussle between Asian News International (ANI) and YouTubers, including Mohak Mangal, Rajat Pawar, and Thugesh, has spotlighted the complexities of copyright laws and defamation claims in India.
The Genesis of the Dispute
On May 25, 2025, YouTuber Mohak Mangal released a video titled “Dear ANI,” accusing the news agency of misusing copyright laws to demand a ₹40 lakh settlement for alleged infringements. Mangal claimed that ANI’s actions amounted to extortion and blackmail, leading to a broader conversation about the rights of content creators and the boundaries of fair use.
Following Mangal’s video, other creators like Rajat Pawar and Thugesh shared similar experiences, alleging that ANI had issued copyright strikes against their channels for using short clips of ANI’s footage. These creators argued that their usage fell under fair dealing provisions, as their content was transformative and served a public-interest purpose.
Legal Actions Initiated
In response to these allegations, ANI filed a defamation suit against Mohak Mangal in the Delhi High Court, asserting that Mangal had used its copyrighted material and trademark without permission and had published false and damaging claims.
The court directed Mangal to take down the video and allowed re-uploading only after removing objectionable parts and sharing the revised version with ANI for review.
The suit also named comedian Kunal Kamra and AltNews co-founder Mohammed Zubair as defendants for sharing Mangal’s video on their social media handles.
Copyright Laws in India
Under the Indian Copyright Act of 1957, copyright infringement is a criminal offense. Section 63 of the Act stipulates that any person who knowingly infringes or abets the infringement of a copyrighted work can be punished with imprisonment and fines.
However, the Act also recognizes the concept of ‘fair dealing,’ which allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission for purposes such as criticism, review, or reporting current events. The interpretation of what constitutes fair dealing is often subjective and determined on a case-by-case basis.
Defamation Laws in India
Defamation in India can be pursued under both civil and criminal law. Civil defamation involves seeking monetary compensation for harm caused to reputation, while criminal defamation, under Section 499 of the Indian Penal Code, can lead to imprisonment and fines.
In the context of the ANI vs. YouTubers case, the court observed that certain terms used in Mangal’s video, such as “hafta wasooli” and “gunda raaj,” were defamatory and ordered their removal.
The Broader Implications
This case underscores the delicate balance between protecting intellectual property rights and upholding freedom of expression. It raises critical questions:
– Where does fair use end and infringement begin?
– How can content creators navigate the complexities of using copyrighted material?
– What constitutes defamation in the digital age?
As the court proceedings continue, the outcomes may set significant precedents for content creation, copyright enforcement, and freedom of speech in India.
Conclusion
The legal battle between ANI and YouTubers like Mohak Mangal highlights the evolving challenges in the digital content landscape. While news agencies have the right to protect their content, creators also seek clarity on the permissible use of such material. This case serves as a pivotal moment in defining the contours of copyright and defamation laws in the context of modern media.
FAQs
Q1: What is the basis of ANI’s lawsuit against Mohak Mangal?
ANI alleges that Mangal used its copyrighted material without permission and made defamatory statements in his video, leading to the defamation suit.
Q2: What does Indian law say about using copyrighted material?
The Indian Copyright Act allows for ‘fair dealing’ in certain cases, but unauthorized use beyond these exceptions can lead to legal consequences.
Q3: Can sharing a defamatory video lead to legal action?
Yes, sharing content deemed defamatory can make individuals liable under defamation laws, as seen with other defendants in this case.
Q4: What are the potential penalties for copyright infringement in India?
Under Section 63 of the Copyright Act, infringement can lead to imprisonment and fines.
Q5: How does this case affect content creators?
It emphasizes the importance of understanding copyright laws and the risks of defamation, urging creators to exercise caution in their content.
To read more Indian Laws, visit Legal Guide India
