The Delhi High Court's directions to Meta underscore the ongoing tension between copyright enforcement and intermediary protections under Section 79 of the IT Act. This ruling seeks to clarify the responsibilities of platforms amidst tightening IT rules.
Delhi High Court Examines ISP Copyright Enforcement Framework
On August 14, 2026, the Delhi High Court addressed the complexities surrounding the intermediary liability framework in the context of copyright enforcement. The Court directed Meta to provide clarity regarding its policies regarding access to its Rights Manager tool, in light of recent amendments to the IT Rules aimed at tightening intermediary obligations.
The ruling reflects the increasing challenges faced by intermediaries in navigating the dual mandates of copyright protection and the legal protections afforded by Section 79 of the Information Technology Act. The Court highlighted the necessity for a balanced approach that upholds copyright enforcement without undermining the safeguards in place for internet platforms.
Given the expanding digital landscape, the adjudication prompts important questions about the future of ISP responsibilities regarding copyright violations. As platform policies come under judicial scrutiny, practitioners must remain vigilant and adapt to evolving legal expectations.
