Zee sues Blinkit over alleged copyright infringement on Instagram
Zee Entertainment Enterprises has sued quick commerce platform Blinkit for allegedly using its copyrighted content on Instagram. The legal case could have broader implications for the commercial use of music on the platform.
BUSINESS REPORT: Entertainment company Zee Entertainment Enterprises has filed a lawsuit against quick commerce platform Blinkit, alleging unauthorized use of copyrighted material on Blinkit's Instagram account. The lawsuit, filed in the Delhi High Court on July 27, claims that Blinkit created and uploaded infringing content to its social media.
The case may set a precedent for the commercial use of music on Instagram. While Zee's licensing agreement with Meta allows individuals to use its music in posts for non-commercial purposes, platforms often use Zee's licensed music to promote products in short-form videos. It remains unclear if Blinkit had obtained prior authorization from Zee for such commercial use.
The Delhi High Court has issued summons to Blinkit's parent company, Blink Commerce Private Limited, and ordered it to file a written response within 30 days. The next hearing is scheduled for August 27. This marks the third instance this year that Zee has accused a company of copyright infringement on Instagram, following a similar suit against retailer Nykaa.
Zee's copyright claims are part of a wider trend of content owners seeking to enforce their rights in the digital space. Last month, the Delhi High Court issued an order compelling Meta to remove several Facebook URLs hosting Zee's copyrighted content. Zee has also been involved in other legal disputes concerning the unauthorized use of its sound recordings and films across various platforms.