The Delhi High Court on August 14, 2026, declined to grant interim relief to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in its copyright dispute over the broadcast of Gurbani from the Golden Temple.
Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani was hearing SGPC’s plea against Galactic Television and Communications, which allegedly rebroadcast Gurbani from Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Background of the Case
SGPC claimed that it held rights relating to the broadcast of Gurbani and alleged that Galactic Television was retransmitting the broadcast, reportedly with a 10-second delay. The committee sought an interim order restraining the channel from continuing the broadcast.
Appearing for SGPC, Senior Advocate Chander M. Lall argued that the broadcast amounted to infringement of the broadcaster’s special rights under the Copyright Act.
Senior Advocate P.S. Patwalia, appearing for Galactic Television, submitted that the channel was not commercialising the broadcast.
Court’s Observation
Justice Bhambhani prima facie observed that the Guru Granth Sahib may constitute a literary work, while its recitation involves a musical performance.
“It is a literary cum musical work,” the Court remarked, adding that use for a bona fide religious ceremony without commercialisation may not amount to infringement.
The Court also noted the possible applicability of Sections 52(1)(z)(a) and 52(1)(l) of the Copyright Act.
Decision
The Court said,
“In view thereof, this Court is not inclined to pass any ad interim order at this stage.”
The defendants were directed to file their replies, and the matter was listed for September 24, 2026.
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