Delhi HC Restrains Unauthorized Use Of Amitabh Bachchan’s Voice, Image, Name

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Friday passed an interim order restraining unauthorized use of actor Amitabh Bachchan’s voice, image, name or any other trait exclusively identifiable with him by any individual.

The court’s order came on a lawsuit by the veteran actor alleging exploitation of his “publicity rights as a celebrity” by several individuals, including the person behind a “KBC lottery” to scam the public.

The 80-year-old Bachchan is the host of popular TV game show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC).

Justice Navin Chawla said it is undisputed that Bachchan is a well-known personality and is likely to suffer an irreparable loss and disrepute if relief is not granted at this stage.

Opining that a case for relief at this stage has been made out by the actor, the court ordered, “There shall be an ad interim ex parte order of injunction”.

“The defendants appear to be using his celebrity status for promoting their own activities without his authorisation or permission. The plaintiff is therefore likely to suffer grave irreparable harm or injury to his reputation. In fact, some of the activities complained of may also bring disrepute,” the court said.

The court directed telecom authorities to take action to pull down websites providing the content in violation of Bachchan’s rights.