Home » Alerts » Calcutta High Court Reiterates Need for Separate Licences for Underlying Musical and Literary Works

DISCLAIMER: The material contained in this publication is solely for information and general guidance and not for advertising or soliciting. The information provided does not constitute professional advice that may be required before acting on any matter. While every care has been taken in the preparation of this publication to ensure its accuracy, Vaish Associates Advocates neither assumes responsibility for any errors, which despite all precautions, may be found herein nor accepts any liability, and disclaims all responsibility, for any kind of loss or damage arising on account of anyone acting / refraining to act by placing reliance upon the information contained in this publication.

In Vodafone Idea Limited v. Indian Performing Right Society Limited (2026:CHC:OS:170-DB), the Calcutta High Court held that telecom operators cannot offer caller tunes or ringtones solely based on licences for sound recordings. The Court clarified that separate authorisation is required for the underlying literary and musical works, as lyricists and composers retain independent rights under the Copyright Act.

The ruling highlights that ownership of sound recordings does not extinguish authors’ rights and highlights the need for comprehensive licensing in digital music exploitation.

For any clarification, please write to [email protected]

DOWNLOAD PDF FILE