The Delhi High Court ruled that composer Ilaiyaraaja doesn't hold the copyright to his song "En Iniya Pon Nilave," preventing him from assigning rights to Vels Film International for use in their movie. The court favored Saregama India, who held rights from a 1980 agreement with the original film producer, citing a controversial legal precedent. Despite Ilaiyaraaja's authorization, Vels had to pay Saregama a license fee. This decision highlights the ongoing struggle for composers to control and be compensated for their work, especially in pre-2012 agreements, and underscores how legal interpretations can undermine the intended protection of authors' rights, even when agreements exist.
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Details
- Publication date
- 5 February 2025
- Author
- European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency