Has the Madras HC Stopped 36 ISPs from Streaming Pirated Versions of Rajinikanth’s 'Coolie'?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Madras High Court issues injunction against 36 ISPs.
- Targeting pirated versions of 'Coolie'.
- Protecting producers' interests in the film industry.
- Ruling includes major ISPs and local cable networks.
- High expectations for 'Coolie' after its release.
Chennai, Aug 11 (NationPress) The Madras High Court has issued a directive on Monday that prohibits 36 Internet Service Providers (ISPs) nationwide from permitting “rogue websites” to stream unauthorized versions of the much-awaited Rajinikanth film 'Coolie', which is scheduled for a spectacular theatrical debut on August 14.
Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy granted an interim injunction mandating the ISPs to block all current websites and web pages, as well as any that may emerge in the future, if they host or stream unauthorized copies of the film.
This ruling seeks to combat online piracy and safeguard the financial interests of the film's producers.
The injunction was issued following the judge's review of records from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which confirmed that Sun TV Network Limited is the producer of 'Coolie'.
Judge Ramamoorthy pointed out that the production company would face “irreparable harm” if unauthorised versions were allowed to spread online, emphasizing that the losses would be not just financial but also detrimental to the artistic efforts behind the film.
The injunction affects major ISPs such as Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL), Bharti Airtel, Hathway Cable, Tata Communication, Vodafone, Idea Cellular, Reliance Communication, Tata Teleservices, Sycon Infoway, GTPL Hathway, Tikona Digital, BG Broadband, and Sify, among others.
A similar order was also issued against five Chennai-based cable networks—Action Lane, JAK Communications Private Limited, C32 Cable Net Private Limited, Thamizhaga Cable TV Communication Private Limited, and Thiru Nagar Satellite Vision Private Limited—prohibiting them from broadcasting unauthorized versions of the film.
Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, 'Coolie' showcases a stellar pan-India cast, featuring Bollywood star Aamir Khan, Telugu superstar Nagarjuna Akkineni, Kannada actor Upendra Rao, and Malayalam actor Soubin Shahir.
After a long hiatus, veteran Tamil actor Sathyaraj—renowned for his portrayal of Kattappa in the 'Baahubali' franchise—will reunite with Rajinikanth. Actress Shruti Haasan also plays a significant role.
This film marks the inaugural collaboration between Rajinikanth and director Lokesh Kanagaraj, celebrated for his blockbuster action thrillers.
With a renowned director, a powerful ensemble cast, and the superstar’s undeniable charisma, expectations for 'Coolie' are soaring throughout India.