Fair Use Debate: Raghav Chadha Calls For Copyright Act Amendments

 AAP MP Raghav Chadha has urged amendments to India’s Copyright Act, 1957, stressing that “fair use isn’t piracy.” He highlighted the plight of millions of digital content creators facing arbitrary copyright strikes and algorithmic takedowns, demanding legal safeguards to protect livelihoods and ensure due process in digital platforms.  

In a strong intervention during the Winter Session of Parliament, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Raghav Chadha raised concerns over the challenges faced by India’s growing community of digital content creators. He argued that the current copyright framework does not adequately protect creators from arbitrary actions by digital platforms, often resulting in loss of income and disruption of careers.  

Key highlights from the announcement include  

• Chadha emphasized that millions of Indians now rely on platforms like YouTube and Instagram for their livelihoods.  
• He stated that content creators function as educators, entertainers, reviewers, musicians, and influencers, contributing significantly to India’s digital economy.  
• The MP argued that arbitrary algorithms and copyright strikes undermine creators’ rights and financial stability.  
• He called for amendments to the Copyright Act, 1957, to clearly define digital fair use and protect creators from unjust takedowns.  
• Chadha clarified that he is not against copyright holders, stressing that their rights must also be respected.  
• He urged Parliament to recognize digital content as an asset and source of income, not merely entertainment.  
• The proposed changes would ensure due process in content removal and safeguard creators’ intellectual property.  

Industry experts note that Chadha’s intervention reflects a growing global debate on balancing copyright enforcement with fair use in the digital age. With India’s digital economy expanding rapidly, the issue of protecting creators’ rights has become increasingly urgent.  

The demand for amendments is expected to spark wider discussions among policymakers, legal experts, and digital platforms. If implemented, the reforms could reshape India’s copyright landscape, offering stronger protections for creators while maintaining respect for copyright holders.  

Sources: The Hindu, NDTV, Hindustan Times, Devdiscourse