Ilaiyaraaja Wins Interim Relief Against Digital Misuse

The Madras High Court has issued an important temporary order in a case filed over the unauthorized use of musician Ilaiyaraaja’s photographs on social media. The court has banned the use of his images on platforms like YouTube, Instagram or any other and directed that all photos already posted must be removed.

In his petition Ilaiyaraaja emphasized that his photograph, name, title as a musician and voice should not be used without his permission. He also requested details of income earned by channels using his films.

The petition highlighted that AI-generated videos and memes altering his face violated his intellectual property rights.

During the hearing his lawyers explained that many people were using his photo and voice for commercial purposes which could harm his personal rights and reputation.

Some memes also contained defamatory comments. The court agreed to prevent unauthorized use of celebritie images and issued an interim injunction. The next hearing is scheduled for next week.

Experts say this could set an important precedent for digital rights protection of celebrities.