In a significant step to curb movie piracy ahead of a film’s release, the Madras High Court on Friday (October 17) granted an interim injunction in favour of Maddock Films Pvt. Ltd., restraining several internet service providers (ISPs) and cable operators from illegally broadcasting or streaming the upcoming film “Thamma.” The order came just hours before the film’s scheduled theatrical release, offering crucial protection against unauthorized digital leaks.
Background
Maddock Films, represented by its authorised signatory Ms. Nandhini Kumar, filed the plea fearing rampant piracy soon after release-a common issue plaguing major Indian films. The company presented its Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) certificate to establish ownership and legitimacy.
The respondents included a long list of service providers such as Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), Airtel, Reliance Jio, Hathway, and several regional cable networks across Chennai, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. The case registered as O.A. Nos. 987 & 988 of 2025 in C.S. (Comm Div) No. 263 of 2025 was heard by Justice N. Senthilkumar.
Counsel for Maddock Films, from M/s P.K. Law Firm, argued that without immediate court intervention, the film would likely appear on unauthorized digital platforms within hours of release, leading to “irreversible financial and reputational loss.”
Court’s Observations
Justice Senthilkumar agreed that piracy posed a real and imminent threat. “In matters of this nature,” he observed, “irreversible injury will occur unless unlawful broadcast is restrained.” The court acknowledged that online and cable piracy can spread within minutes, often rendering producers helpless despite later legal action.
However, the judge also balanced this concern with fairness toward the respondents, noting that “it is possible that the legitimate business interest of one or more respondents may be affected on account of the expansive nature of relief claimed.” Hence, the court directed that the plaintiff indemnify affected parties if any legitimate operations were unintentionally disrupted.
The order was issued ex parte (without hearing the respondents initially), considering the time-sensitive nature of the film’s release.
Decision
Granting an ad interim injunction-a temporary protection-the court restrained all 29 listed internet and cable operators from broadcasting or allowing unauthorized distribution of “Thamma” through any medium. The order will remain effective until November 14, 2025, by which date the respondents are to appear and present their side.
The judge further directed Maddock Films to serve notices to all respondents and comply with procedural requirements under Order XXXIX Rule 3 of the Civil Procedure Code, which governs injunctions.
For now, the order ensures that the producers of “Thamma” can release their film without the looming threat of digital piracy at least until the next hearing.
Case: Maddock Films Pvt. Ltd. vs Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. & Others
Case Numbers: O.A. Nos. 987 & 988 of 2025 in C.S. (Comm. Div.) No. 263 of 2025
Applicant/Plaintiff: Maddock Films Pvt. Ltd., represented by Ms. Nandhini Kumar
Respondents: BSNL and 28 other ISPs and cable operators across India
Date of Order: 17 October 2025