The Mumbai Police have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the illegal online distribution of the historical drama Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal. The film, which is still running in theaters, has reportedly been pirated and shared through 1,818 internet links, prompting strict legal action.
Details of the Case
The complaint was filed by Rajat Rahul Haksar, CEO of August Entertainment, an anti-piracy agency hired by Maddock Films, the production house behind Chhaava. The case has been registered at the South Cyber Police Station under multiple provisions, including Sections 316(2) and 308(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Sections 51, 63, and 65A of the Copyright Act, Section 6AA of the Cinematograph Act, 1952 (Amendment 2023), and Sections 43 and 66 of the Information Technology Act.
Authorities have confirmed that they are actively tracking the IP addresses associated with the illegal links to identify those responsible for the piracy. A Mumbai police official stated, “Our probe has found that unidentified persons have created 1,818 internet links to circulate the film, thereby violating copyright laws and also impacting its theatrical distribution.”
Impact on the Film
Chhaava, an adaptation of the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant, has been a commercial success, grossing ₹772 crore worldwide in its fifth week. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film features a stellar cast, including Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Ashutosh Rana, and Divya Dutta. However, the widespread piracy has significantly impacted its theatrical earnings.
A Call for Stricter Enforcement
The piracy of Chhaava underscores the growing need for stricter enforcement against digital piracy, which continues to pose a significant challenge to the Indian film industry. Studios and production houses are increasingly collaborating with anti-piracy agencies to track and remove illegal links, sending a strong message about the legal consequences of unauthorized online distribution.
Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds and the authorities work to bring the perpetrators to justice.
