Publicity Rights/ Celebrity Rights

Safeguarding Digital Identity in the age of Deepfakes: An analytical study of AI regulation in India with special reference to Personality Rights jurisprudence

A modern workspace scene showing a computer monitor displaying a digitally reconstructed human face with labels like “Deepfake Technology” and “Personality Rights,” alongside legal icons. On the desk are a gavel, legal documents titled “AI Regulation in India,” coffee cups, and stationery, symbolizing the legal regulation of deepfakes and protection of digital identity.

How India’s courts and policymakers are grappling with deepfakes, celebrity personality rights, and the urgent need for a modern legal framework to regulate GenAI misuse.

Unauthorized Commercial Use of Persona of Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan: Delhi HC Intervenes

In the background of merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, an overlay text stating 'Unauthorized Commercial Use of Persona of Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan: Delhi HC Intervenes'

The Delhi High Court intervened to protect actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan’s personality and publicity rights from unauthorized commercial use, including AI-generated impersonations. The Court granted interim injunctions, emphasizing the enforceability of celebrity rights under Indian law.

Creating Similar Voices with AI Infringes Celebrity Rights, Kumar Sanu Case Confirms

In the case of Kumar Sanu Bhattacharjee vs Jammable Limited & Ors, the Delhi High Court restrained multiple AI platforms and online intermediaries from creating or circulating synthetic audio mimicking Kumar Sanu’s voice as well as other aspects of his persona. The court found that voice forms part of a celebrity’s personality along with other characteristics, and cannot be used without authorisation.

Personality Rights Infringement via Deepfakes and Digital Misuse

Concept image showing legal balance scales and a gavel symbolizing justice, with a shadowed human figure in the background and a laptop displaying digital media icons and the text 'Safeguarding personality rights in the age of AI and deepfakes'.

The Bombay High Court’s decision in Suniel Shetty vs John Doe addresses personality rights infringement caused by deepfakes and digital misuse. The judgement clarifies the scope of legal remedies for celebrities and the obligations of online platforms under Indian law.

Delhi HC Orders Takedown of Fake Videos of Journalist Sudhir Chaudhary

Man wearing a white mask sitting at a desk in front of a computer

The Delhi High Court has ordered Meta, Google, and others to promptly remove AI-generated fake videos defaming journalist Sudhir Chaudhary. Recognising the urgent harm, the Court mandated swift takedown and preservation of critical data for investigation.

Alia Bhatt Case: Court Stops Ex-Personal Secretary from Sharing Confidential Info

In the case of Eternal Sunshine Productions Pvt. Ltd. vs Vedika Prakash Shetty, the Bombay High Court stepped in to protect sensitive personal data of actor Ms. Alia Bhatt. The court upheld the confidentiality obligations set out in a release letter and restrained the former personal secretary from disclosing private information to the public or media.

Aishwarya Rai Gets Court Relief Against Deepfakes, Fake Merchandise, and Online Impersonation

In the case of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan vs Aishwaryaworld.Com, the Delhi High Court restrained several websites, online sellers, and digital content creators from misusing the identity of the celebrity through unauthorised merchandise, websites, AI-generated impersonations, and obscene deepfakes.

Isha Foundation Secures Interim Relief in Defamation Case, Next Hearing in September

Illustration showing a YouTube play button, legal gavel, and a calendar marked for September 9.

After securing interim relief in a defamation case involving a viral YouTube video, Isha Foundation awaits further proceedings now adjourned to 9th September 2025. No significant development occurred in the May session, and the interim order continues to apply.

Telugu Actor Manchu Vishnu gets a John Doe Order to prevent misuse of his Name, voice and Likeness

The Delhi High Court has issued an interim John Doe order in favour of Telugu actor Manchu Vishnu to prevent unauthorised use of his name, voice, and likeness by content creators. This case highlights judicial protection of personality and publicity rights under Indian law.

Court halts release of film exploiting Karan Johar’s celebrity status

The Bombay High Court halted the release of a film using Karan Johar’s name, citing unauthorised exploitation of his celebrity status. The court recognised his personality rights and restrained the defendants from using his name or attributes in the film.