Copyright Societies In India: Legal Framework, Challenges, And Judicial Interpretations
- IJLLR Journal
- Mar 6
- 1 min read
Amrutha Jayakumar, LLM in Corporate and Commercial Law, Christ (Deemed to be) University, Bangalore
ABSTRACT
Copyright protection is a cornerstone of intellectual property law, ensuring that creators receive fair compensation for their work. Copyright societies play a crucial role in collective rights management, facilitating licensing, royalty collection, and distribution for authors, composers, and performers. In India, the “Copyright Act, 1957” governs these societies, with regulatory oversight to ensure transparency and fair practices. This paper critically examines the legal framework, operational challenges, and judicial pronouncements regarding copyright societies in India. It also explores the evolving role of these organizations in the digital age and proposes reforms to strengthen copyright governance. By evaluating key legislative provisions, significant case laws, and emerging trends, this research provides a comprehensive understanding of the Indian copyright ecosystem. Additionally, the paper delves into the importance of copyright societies, their international counterparts, and the role of international instruments such as the “Berne Convention” and “TRIPS Agreement” in shaping India’s copyright regime. The study concludes with recommendations for improving transparency, adapting to digital challenges, and enhancing dispute resolution mechanisms to ensure a fair and efficient copyright management system.
