Delhi HC: Ex-Parte Injunction Against Rogue Websites Pirating Jolly LLB 3
The Delhi High Court has granted an ex-parte ad-interim injunction restraining over 20 rogue websites from illegally hosting or streaming the upcoming Bollywood film Jolly LLB 3, set to release on 19 September 2025. The plaintiff demonstrated imminent risk of piracy, noting that such websites routinely upload films on the very day of theatrical release.
Calcutta HC: Section 14 Hearing Cannot Be Skipped in Pre-Grant Opposition
In UPL Limited v. Union of India on 16 September 2025, the Calcutta High Court held that examination proceedings under Section 14 of the Patents Act and pre-grant opposition under Section 25(1) of the Patents Act are distinct. The Controller is required to conduct separate hearings and pass separate orders dealing with both sets of objections.
Calcutta HC: Section 3(h) of Patents Act Not a Blanket Bar on Crop-Related Inventions
In BASF SE v. Deputy Controller of Patents, 16 September 2025, the Calcutta High Court clarified that Section 3(h) of the Patents Act, which excludes “a method of agriculture or horticulture,” must be interpreted narrowly. It protects traditional farming practices but does not render technical, human-invented agricultural processes unpatentable. Broad application to science-driven agri-tech claims is impermissible.
Delhi HC: Delay Defeats Novartis’ Right to Cross-Examine in Post-Grant Opposition
In Novartis v. Controller of Patents, the Delhi High Court held that Novartis forfeited its right under Section 79 of the Patents Act to seek cross-examination of opponent witnesses in a post-grant opposition under Section 25(2). Having received the evidence, filed rebuttal affidavits, and waited nearly a year before moving the request, Novartis was found to have waived this right. The Court clarified that principles of natural justice do not entitle parties to cross-examination as a matter of course, especially when invoked belatedly to delay proceedings.
Delhi HC: Relieves Karan Johar by Protecting His Personality Rights
The Delhi High Court, in an interim order on 17 September 2025, has protected filmmaker Karan Johar’s personality and publicity rights. Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora directed social media platforms (Meta, Google, Pinterest) to take down videos, memes, posts and other content using his name, voice, image, or acronym “KJo” without consent. The court found a prima facie case and held the balance of convenience favourable to Johar.
Firoz Nadiadwala Issues ₹25 Crore Legal Notice Over Baburao Character
Firoz Nadiadwala, producer of the Hera Pheri films, has sent a ₹25 crore legal notice to Netflix and the producers of The Great Indian Kapil Show. The notice challenges comedian Kiku Sharda’s portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in a promotional skit, citing copyright infringement under Section 51 of the Copyright Act, 1957, and trademark violation under Section 29 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
Global Innovation Index 2025 Released by WIPO
The 2025 Global Innovation Index (GII) was released on 16 September 2025 by WIPO in collaboration with Cornell University and INSEAD. India ranks 38th out of 139 countries, continuing its steady climb in global innovation performance. The annual GII tracks R&D, patent activity, and technological output, providing a benchmark for policymakers, researchers, and businesses worldwide.
Disney, Universal, Warner Bros. Discovery Sue China’s MiniMax for Copyright Infringement
Walt Disney, Universal, and Warner Bros. Discovery jointly filed a copyright lawsuit against China’s MiniMax in the U.S. District Court (Central District of California). The complaint alleges MiniMax’s AI service Hailuo AI generates unauthorized images and videos of characters like Darth Vader, Minions, and Wonder Woman, despite repeated requests to prevent infringement, seeking damages and an injunction to stop further misuse.
X Corp Settles Trademark Dispute with X Social Media
Elon Musk’s X Corp has settled a trademark lawsuit filed by Florida-based legal-marketing firm X Social Media. The lawsuit, initiated in October 2023, alleged that X Corp’s rebranding of Twitter to “X” caused consumer confusion and financial losses. Both parties have agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice, preventing it from being refiled. As part of the settlement, X Social Media will rebrand itself as Mass Tort Ad Agency. The terms of the settlement have not been disclosed.
Morgan & Morgan Sues Disney Over ‘Steamboat Willie’ Parody Ad
U.S. law firm Morgan & Morgan filed a lawsuit against Disney in Orlando federal court seeking to use a parody of the 1928 animated short Steamboat Willie in an advertisement. While Disney’s copyright expired in 2024, it retains related trademarks. The ad features Minnie Mouse calling the firm after Mickey crashes her car, with a disclaimer of non-affiliation.
Italy Enacts Comprehensive AI Law Covering Privacy, Oversight, and Child Access
Italy has become the first EU country to implement a national AI law aligned with the EU AI Act. The legislation mandates human oversight, traceability, and parental consent for users under 14. Misuse of AI-generated content, including deepfakes, can lead to prison terms up to five years. A €1 billion fund supports AI innovation.
