Court issues ex parte ad interim injunction against websites and entities misusing actor's name and likeness, orders removal of infringing content
In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has granted an interim injunction in favor of actor Akkineni Naga Chaitanya, restraining several websites and entities from unauthorizedly using his name, image, and likeness. The judgment, delivered by Justice Jyoti Singh on May 29, 2026, emphasized the protection of personality and publicity rights against unauthorized exploitation, particularly through AI-generated content and merchandise sales.
The case, filed by the acclaimed actor against defendants including websites such as www.sexvid.xxx, alleged the misuse of his name in association with pornographic content. The court recognized the potential for irreparable harm to Chaitanya's reputation and goodwill, given his established career and significant public persona.
The court ordered websites hosting infringing content, including Defendants No. 1 to 4, to remove specific URLs that associated the actor with objectionable material. Additionally, Defendants No. 6 and 7, involved in selling unauthorized merchandise bearing the actor's likeness, were directed to cease such activities immediately. Google LLC, named as Defendant No. 8, was also instructed to take down multiple YouTube links featuring AI-generated content misappropriating the actor’s persona.
The judgment underscored the actor's right to control the use of his persona, highlighting that the unauthorized use of his image and likeness not only violates personality rights but also encroaches upon his right to privacy and dignity. Justice Singh noted, "Plaintiff's name and persona are valuable commercial assets cultivated over years of hard work, and unauthorized exploitation causes significant harm."
Citing precedents like Anil Kapoor v. Simply Life India and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan v. Aishwaryaworld.com, the court reinforced the legal framework protecting celebrity rights against unauthorized commercial exploitation. The ruling also exempted the actor from pre-institution mediation under the Commercial Courts Act, 2015, due to the urgent nature of the relief sought.
Chaitanya, a prominent figure in Indian cinema, has built a reputable career since his debut in 2009, earning numerous accolades and a loyal fan following. The court's decision is a crucial step in safeguarding the rights of celebrities against the misuse of their identity in the digital age.
The court has mandated compliance with its orders within 24 hours, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the matter. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse on digital rights and the protection of personal identity in the age of technology.
Bottom Line:
Unauthorized use of a celebrity's name, image, likeness, or persona by third parties, including through AI-generated content, deepfakes, or selling merchandise, constitutes a violation of personality/publicity rights and may cause irreparable harm to the celebrity's goodwill and reputation.
Statutory provision(s):
Commercial Courts Act, 2015, Civil Procedure Code, 1908, Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023
Akkineni Naga Chaitanya v. www.sexvid.xxx, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc id # 2913069
