Television actress Rupali Ganguly has secured relief from the Bombay High Court after recently approaching the judiciary to protect her personality rights. In this matter, the High Court has directed the removal of her fake photographs, video clips, and AI-generated objectionable content from the internet. However, the court's directive will not apply to an online boutique that claimed it received permission to use the actress's pictures through her stylist, with the boutique maintaining that the images were provided by Rupali Ganguly herself.
Single Judge Directives and Boutique Exemption
Single judge Justice Madhav Jamdar issued an interim order directing all parties to remove objectionable content targeted at Rupali Ganguly. During this ruling, an exception was carved out for the online boutique Huts and Looms Pvt. Ltd., which was granted relief from the order. The company asserted that it only utilizes those photographs and content that carry the explicit approval of the actress.
Combating Deepfakes and Unauthorized Commercial Use
Just two days prior, Rupali Ganguly had moved the Bombay High Court, pointing out that her pictures, video clips, AI images, and deepfake videos were being leveraged to damage her reputation. Furthermore, these materials were allegedly being exploited for commercial gains without her consent.
Protection of Publicity and Personality Rights
During the proceedings, Rupali Ganguly argued that elements tied directly to her identity, such as her name, voice, signature, expressions, and distinct personal markers, were being misappropriated for commercial advantage. She contended that no individual or entity has the right to utilize, mimic, or wrongfully profit from these inherent attributes of her persona.
Industry Experience and Accolades
Representing the actress, advocate Sana Raees Khan highlighted Rupali Ganguly's extensive contributions to the entertainment industry, noting that she has been working in the sector for 25 years. She has delivered memorable performances in iconic television shows including Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii, Sanjivani, Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, and Anupamaa. Over decades of hard work and earned respect, she has garnered numerous accolades, ranging from Star Parivaar Awards to Indian Television Academy Awards.
