ANI files copyright suit against YouTuber Thugesh over unlicensed video use

New Delhi: News agency Asian News International (ANI) has approached a Delhi court alleging copyright infringement by YouTuber Thugesh, whose real name is Mahesh Rajesh Keshwala.

The agency claims Thugesh used several of its interview clips on his YouTube channel, ‘Thugesh Unfiltered’, without permission.

According to Bar and Bench, ANI has sought damages along with a permanent injunction, alleging that four videos posted on the channel reproduced its content without authorisation. ANI previously issued copyright strikes against the videos, which Thugesh countered, invoking fair use.

The matter was briefly heard by Sessions Judge Pulastya Pramachala at the Patiala House Court, which has now listed the case for further hearing on September 12. Google, which also figures in the case, has requested additional time to verify the claims.

This is the second such lawsuit ANI has filed against a YouTuber in recent months, with a previous suit involving Mohak Mangal still pending before the Delhi High Court.