Rights of Internet Broadcasters in India

Abstract

The paper aims to explore whether the current Indian copyright law regime accommodates and protects the rights of internet broadcasters. Internet broadcasting presents complex legal issues regarding copyright. Extending licenses beyond traditional broadcast mediums may prove to be cumbersome. Nevertheless, these issues need to be addressed so that both rights holders and end users can benefit from emerging technologies. This paper will delve into the legal intricacies surrounding internet broadcasting in India. It will examine the Indian as well as international framework to explore how digital media's rapid growth has compelled lawmakers to revisit existing legislation. It will also analyse the meaning, scope and applicability of broadcasting, reproduction, distribution and making available rights. Accordingly, this paper will discuss the rights of broadcasters under the Indian Copyright Act and analyse whether internet broadcasting can be included within the current framework and the need for such inclusion.