Bhaktivedanta Book Trust vs. Unknown Defendants

Courts step in to protect spiritual literature from online piracy.

Description :

The case revolves around the unauthorized digital distribution of religious books authored by Srila Prabhupada, managed by Bhaktivedanta Book Trust (BBT).

Facts :

BBT discovered that several online platforms were illegally sharing full copies of their spiritual books without consent. These included copyrighted works like the Bhagavad Gita As It Is, Srimad Bhagavatam, and others. The culprits were anonymous and operated globally, making enforcement difficult.

Findings :

The Delhi High Court acknowledged that BBT held clear copyright in the spiritual books and had the right to prevent unauthorized digital publication or circulation. The online pirated content caused reputational and financial loss.

Suggestions :

The Court stressed the importance of digital copyright enforcement and recommended ISPs and web hosts should act responsibly in taking down pirated content swiftly when notified.

Judgment Date : 20 July 2022

Final Order : A “John Doe” order was granted, allowing BBT to restrain unknown infringers and notify online platforms for takedowns.