Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty has approached the Mumbai High Court seeking protection of his personality rights, alleging unauthorized use of his images, deepfakes, and merchandise online by businesses and social media platforms.
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MUMBAI: Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty has approached the Bombay High Court seeking protection of his personality rights, citing widespread misuse of his images on the internet. The actor claims that multiple social media pages, websites, and even deepfake technology are being used to promote businesses and create content without his consent.
The matter was heard before Justice Arif Doctor, who reserved the order on Shetty’s interim application seeking the takedown of infringing content.
Misuse Across Multiple Platforms
Represented by Senior Advocate Birendra Saraf, Shetty highlighted that his images are being exploited commercially without authorization. According to Saraf:
- Real estate agencies and astrology websites are using Shetty’s photographs for promotions.
- Gambling websites have displayed his images despite having no association with the actor.
- Merchandise and posters featuring Shetty’s face are being sold online without permission.
Saraf also pointed out that deepfake technology has been used to create images of Shetty, including pictures depicting him with his grandchild, which are entirely fabricated.
Legal Action
Shetty’s legal team has filed claims alleging:
- Infringement of personality rights
- Passing off
- Misuse in merchandising
The actor has requested the court to order the removal of such content from social media and websites. Importantly, his counsel clarified that the plea does not seek a blanket ban on any websites but is limited to removing infringing material.
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Suniel Shetty was represented by Senior Advocate Birendra Saraf, briefed by a team from Parinam Law Associates comprising Advocates Jani Jain, Monisha Bhangale, Bijal Vora and Tamanna Meghrajani
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