High Court
Gujarat HC issues notice to TRAI over MSO-LCO profit sharing
MUMBAI: The Gujarat High Court issued a notice to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the centre on 1 February 2019, over a petition filed by local cable operators (LCOs) challenging the decision to fix the ratio of profit sharing between LCOs and multi-system operators (MSOs).
In 2017, TRAI issued a notification fixing the ratio of sharing of service charges collected towards cable connections at 55:45 between MSOs and LCOs. This was done by inserting clause 12(7) in the Telecommunications (broadcasting & cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) Regulations.
A bench headed by acting chief justice A S Dave has sought reply from the authorities and posted the matter for further hearing after two weeks.
The Cable Operators Association Of Gujarat filed the petition through advocate Pratik Jasani challenging the insertion of the clause, fixing the revenue sharing between MSOs and LCOs. The cable operators have urged the HC to quash the arrangement before implementation of the 2017 notification, though the government consulted other stakeholders.
High Court
Delhi HC blocks illegal IPL 2026 streams, backs JioStar rights
Court orders swift takedowns, expands crackdown on piracy apps
NEW DELHI: In a timely move ahead of the cricketing season, the Delhi High Court has granted interim relief to JioStar India Private Limited, clamping down on illegal streaming of the TATA Indian Premier League 2026.
The court passed ex parte ad interim injunctions in two separate suits, restraining rogue websites and mobile applications from broadcasting IPL matches without authorisation. The tournament is set to begin on 28 March, making the timing of the order particularly significant.
Recognising JioStar’s exclusive digital and broadcast rights for the IPL cycle from 2023 to 2027, the court observed that unauthorised streaming would infringe its statutory and proprietary rights, potentially causing irreparable losses.
In one case, the court directed several identified websites to immediately stop hosting or streaming IPL content. It also issued a dynamic injunction, allowing JioStar to flag new infringing platforms in real time, which must then be blocked swiftly by domain registrars and internet service providers.
In a parallel order, the court turned its attention to piracy through mobile apps, particularly Android-based platforms distributing content via APK files. A broader dynamic+ injunction was granted, extending to future variants, mirror links and related interfaces, signalling a tougher stance on evolving piracy tactics.
The court also directed domain name registrars to suspend offending domains and share registrant details, including KYC and payment information. Internet service providers and telecom operators have been instructed to block access within strict timelines, in some instances within 36 hours. Both the Department of Telecommunications and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology have been asked to facilitate enforcement through necessary notifications.
Noting the fast-changing nature of digital piracy, the court emphasised the need for real-time enforcement tools to keep pace with anonymous and constantly shifting networks. It also underlined the commercial impact of piracy on legitimate rights holders.
The ruling reinforces the judiciary’s firm stance on protecting intellectual property in the digital age. For viewers, it is a reminder to stick to official platforms as the IPL season kicks off under tighter watch.
