New Delhi, February 24–25, 2026:
The Delhi High Court has taken a strong legal step to safeguard the personality and publicity rights of Indian singer Jubin Nautiyal by restraining unauthorized use of his identity across digital platforms, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and e-commerce sites.
Background of the Case
Nautiyal filed a commercial suit in the Delhi High Court alleging that his name, image, voice, vocal style, singing mannerisms, and other attributes of his public persona were being misused without consent by various online platforms, AI services, and anonymous entities. The singer claimed such exploitation could harm his reputation and commercial value.
Interim Order by the Court
On February 19, 2026, a single-judge bench of Justice Tushar Rao Gedela granted an ex-parte ad-interim injunction in favour of Nautiyal. The court ruled that, at this stage, the singer had made out a strong prima facie case, given his prominent public profile, and that irreparable harm could be caused without immediate relief.
Key Directions of the Order
Under the interim order:
- Multiple AI platforms, websites, and e-commerce intermediaries are forbidden from using Jubin Nautiyal’s name, voice, image, likeness, and other personal attributes for commercial or personal use without permission.
- The order specifically bars creation and distribution of AI-generated voices, deepfakes, digital avatars, face-morphed videos, or any synthetic content that imitates the singer.
- Online platforms must remove or block access to identified infringing content and disclose information about the individuals or entities responsible for uploading such material.
- Defendants are restrained from producing or selling merchandise falsely suggesting association with Nautiyal.
Reasoning of the Court
The court noted that Nautiyal’s goodwill, reputation, and public identity, built over years through his music and public presence, are valuable commercial assets. Unauthorized imitation or misuse — especially through advanced AI and digital tools — could cause harm that monetary damages alone may not remedy.
Next Steps in Litigation
Summons have been issued to the defendants, who must file written statements within 30 days of receiving notice. The matter is scheduled for further procedural hearings later this year.
Significance
This order aligns with a broader trend of Indian courts increasingly recognizing and enforcing personality rights — especially in the digital age where AI and online platforms can replicate or misrepresent public figures without consent. Nautiyal joins a growing list of celebrities asserting legal control over their personal identities.
