Judicial Approaches to Music Copyright Infringement in India: A Case Study-Based Analysis

Abstract

The protection of intellectual property rights (IPR) is essential for safeguarding the creativity and economic interests of musicians. In India, the music industry faces a growing challenge with copyright infringement, particularly with the rise of digital platforms and the increasing complexities of licensing and royalty distribution. This research examines the judicial response to copyright infringement in the Indian music industry, focusing on how the courts have interpreted and enforced relevant provisions of the Copyright Act, 1957, with a particular emphasis on recent cases. Through a doctrinal analysis of landmark judgments, this study explores the efficacy of legal remedies such as injunctions, damages, and the role of collecting societies like the Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS) in protecting musicians' rights. The research highlights key judicial trends and identifies gaps in enforcement mechanisms, including the limitations posed by lengthy legal proceedings and the complexities of digital infringement. The findings suggest that while Indian courts have taken steps to protect musicians' rights, several challenges hinder effective enforcement, including lengthy legal proceedings, limited awareness among musicians, and the technological complexities of digital infringement. The research emphasizes the need for judicial reforms and proposes adopting blockchain and digital watermarking technologies to strengthen copyright protection. In conclusion, this study argues that although the judiciary has made progress in addressing copyright issues, a more robust and efficient legal framework is necessary to protect the intellectual property of musicians in India, particularly in the context of a rapidly evolving digital landscape.