Bombay High Court Refused to Stay Release of ‘I Love You’ Movie in Copyright Suit

Bombay High Court Refused to Stay Release of ‘I Love You’ Movie in Copyright Suit

The Bombay High Court by its single judge Justice RI Chagla in a plea copyright infringement case filed by Lions Gate India LLP (LGIL) against the makers of the film has refused to stay the release of Bollywood film ‘I Love You.’

LGIL alleged that the producers of the film 'I Love You,' Athena E&M LLP, have violated their exclusive right to remake the American film 'P2,' based on LGIL's rights.

American company, Summit Entertainment had the exclusive copyrights of P2 and its Hindi remake rights were given to LGIL, the company claimed.

In order to prevent the film from being released on Viacom's online platform, LGIL sought an injunction against Athena and Viacom 18 Media Pvt Ltd.

The plaintiff contended that they learnt about the film’s release only on 5 June, 2023 and immediately approached the High Court. They have sought Rs. 10 crores in damages as final relief.

Appearing for Viacom Senior Advocate Ashish Kamath and Advocates Ameet Naik and Madhu Gadodia from Naik Naik & Co, vehemently opposed the prayers.

After recording the arguments of both the parties, the judge sought responses from the defendants on the question of grant of interim relief and posted the matter for hearing next week.

In the interim order, the Court refused to impose a stay on the film’s release.