The Government remains conscious of the adverse impact of digital piracy on the creative sector. To address this important issue, the following reforms have been implemented:

• In 2023, the Government amended the Cinematograph Act, 1952 to include measures against digital piracy.
   
• The amendments include strict punishment of a minimum 3 months imprisonment and fine of ₹3 lakh, which can be extended up to 3 years imprisonment and fine up to 5% of the audited gross production cost.
   
• Section 6AA and 6AB of the Cinematograph Act prohibit unauthorized recording and transmission of films.
   
• Newly added Section 7(1B)(ii) of the Cinematograph Act empowers the Government to issue necessary directions to intermediaries for hosting pirated content.
   
• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Central Board of Film Certification have been empowered to receive complaints from copyright holders or authorized persons, and issue necessary directions to intermediaries hosting such content.
   
• An inter-ministerial committee has been constituted to strengthen anti-piracy strategies and develop coordinated action plans.
   
• During the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025, a competition was held to develop technical solutions to combat digital piracy.
   

The Government remains engaged with relevant stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, to curb the menace of digital piracy and protect the integrity of India’s entertainment ecosystem.

This information was submitted by the Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L. Murugan, in the Rajya Sabha.

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Dharmendra Tewari\Navin Sreejith