The Delhi High Court has issued a dynamic injunction to block unauthorized websites from illegally streaming Star India’s content from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, protecting broadcast rights and curbing digital piracy.

Delhi High Court Takes Swift Action to Protect Star India’s ICC Broadcast Rights

The Delhi High Court has imposed a dynamic injunction in favor of Star India to curb unauthorized streaming of content related to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. This judicial order targets rogue websites transmitting, hosting, or broadcasting ICC Events without legal rights.

Justice Sanjeev Narula emphasized the importance of immediate action, stating that delays in blocking these sites could result in substantial financial losses and irreversible harm to Star India’s broadcasting rights.

Dynamic Injunctions: A Strategic Move to Combat Digital Piracy

With the increasing online popularity of ICC Events, Star India feared widespread illegal streaming during the tournament. The company was particularly concerned about unauthorized betting websites using the T20 World Cup as a promotional tool.

Representing Star India, Advocate Sneha Jain argued that previous court injunctions often resulted in the rise of new infringing sites. Dynamic injunctions, however, have proven to be more effective in quickly blocking these emerging threats and preserving the rights of content owners.

Financial and Legal Stakes in Broadcasting Rights

The court acknowledged the vast viewership and commercial value tied to ICC tournaments. Star India, having secured exclusive digital and television rights through significant investment, faced severe risks from unauthorized broadcasts. The bench affirmed that such unauthorized sharing of protected content violated both the Copyright Act and intellectual property protections.

The court further clarified that the broadcast material — including match footage, commentary, and supporting content — is fully protected under copyright law. Unauthorized use not only hampers revenue but also undermines the legal framework protecting media content.

Judicial Recognition of the Evolving Threat of Digital Piracy

The court noted a recurring trend of unauthorized streaming on the internet, especially surrounding global sports events. As digital threats continue to evolve, so too must the legal mechanisms that address them.

The bench stressed that judicial orders must remain adaptive to the ever-changing digital environment. Static legal remedies are inadequate in combating the fluid nature of piracy. Therefore, dynamic and forward-thinking court actions are essential in defending content creators and rights holders.

Legal Framework Must Evolve With Technology

Recognizing the rapid development of digital platforms, the court urged a more robust legal response to protect copyright and intellectual property. Inaction or reliance on outdated methods, the court noted, could erode the rights of legitimate owners.

It called for a legal system that is not only aware of these evolving challenges but is also proactive in addressing them with dynamic tools that ensure enforceable protections.

Interim Relief Granted: Next Hearing Set for November

After reviewing evidence presented by Star India, the court found sufficient grounds to grant interim relief. It ruled that, without an injunction, Star India would suffer irreparable damage due to the fleeting nature of T20 matches and the scale of online piracy.

The bench scheduled the next hearing for November 5, 2024, affirming the need for immediate legal protection to uphold broadcasting rights and safeguard against infringement.