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Viacom18 files FIR over piracy of ‘Laal Singh Chaddha’
Mumbai: An FIR was registered on a complaint filed by Viacom18 at Banaswadi police station, Bangalore against a suspect who was arrested on 12 August. Viacom18 received a tip from Cinepolis, Orient Mall, Bangalore, and made the arrest.
During the investigation, police discovered incriminating evidence, and there is the possibility of an organised crime syndicate operating in the realm of illegal uploading and distribution of the film “Laal Singh Chaddha” and other pirated content.
According to a preliminary police investigation, the accused may be involved in a larger piracy racket with websites such as Tamilrockers and Primerockers, which are engaged in uploading and illegally distributing pirated content. Because of their illegal actions, such pirate websites cause huge losses to producers, content owners, and creators.
The arrest of the accused is a ray of hope for all content creators, and it could be a significant step toward action against pirates, as well as a sigh of relief for the industry.
The company believes larger pirate networks may come to light as a result of this arrest, and the offenders may be prosecuted.
Viacom18’s General Counsel, Anil Lale, said: “Viacom18 pledges its continuous support in the fight against piracy. We will continue our endeavour to create a secure and piracy-free space. It is important to take proactive measures to prevent piracy or infringement. We believe it is even more important to be involved and actively participate in the execution process to give effect to the larger interest we are trying to achieve.”
Viacom18 recently obtained injunctive relief from the Madras High Court against a number of more than 12,000 specific websites/links, specified cable operators, internet service providers, as well as unknown individuals, prohibiting them from violating the film “Laal Singh Chaddha” or any part of it by copying, recording, reproducing, distributing, or downloading, etc. in any way without proper authorisation.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
