Delhi HC restrains Kuku FM from streaming new episodes amid Pocket FM's copyright lawsuit

Pocket FM has filed a lawsuit seeking 10 million dollars (approximately Rs 80 crore) in damages, alleging over 30 instances of unauthorised copying by Kuku FM.

The order was passed by Justice Saurabh Banerjee, who directed Kuku FM not to release any further episodes of the contested shows and to submit details related to the content in question.

Senior Advocate Amit Sibal, appearing for Pocket FM and briefed by law firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas, argued that Kuku FM had engaged in "wholesale and systematic copying" of Pocket FM's original content, including show titles, characters, posters, and entire storylines.

He emphasised that Pocket FM had spent years developing a robust content strategy, which Kuku FM was now exploiting for unfair commercial gain.

Among the examples presented, Sibal pointed out that Kuku FM had replicated Pocket FM's popular show Shoorveer, including the use of an almost identical poster, indicating clear and deliberate imitation.

In another instance, Kuku FM allegedly uploaded full episodes of Insta Millionaire, retaining Pocket FM's branding in the voiceover, instructing listeners to log in to the Pocket FM app.

To preserve key evidence, Pocket FM has also sought the appointment of a local commissioner to inspect Kuku FM's platform and prevent tampering. Sibal further argued that despite facing multiple lawsuits in the past, Kuku FM continues to copy content without any justification or corrective measures.

In response, Kuku FM's counsel, Advocate Saikrishna Rajagopal, contended that the shows had been available on its platform since June 2024 and claimed that Pocket FM's legal action was delayed. He argued that the plaintiff had not made a clear case for urgent interim relief. Nevertheless, the Court restrained Kuku FM from airing new episodes and listed the matter for further hearing on August 29. (ANI)