Delhi High Court Exposes Pirated CCTV Software Use by Commerce Ministry
Court grants relief to tech company in copyright infringement case
Ruling highlights need for government accountability in software licensing
By Our Legal Reporter
New Delhi: December 18, 2025:
In a case that has raised serious questions about government accountability, the Delhi High Court has granted relief to a technology company after discovering that the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry was using pirated CCTV surveillance software at its headquarters in Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi.
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Justice Tejas Karia, presiding over the matter, observed that the software installed at the site was unauthorized and pirated, as there was no purchase order from the plaintiff company and the license was originally issued for a different location.
Background of the Case
- The dispute arose when Mirasys India Pvt Ltd, a tech company specializing in video management software, filed a commercial suit alleging software piracy, copyright infringement, and license misuse.
- The company discovered that its proprietary CCTV and AI‑based video management software was being used at Udyog Bhawan without authorization.
- The issue came to light in May 2025, when TCIL (Telecommunications Consultants India Ltd) raised a complaint about malfunctioning surveillance systems.
- Investigations revealed that the Commerce Ministry was using pirated copies of the software, originally licensed for another site in Gurugram.
Court’s Observations
Justice Tejas Karia made several important points:
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- Unauthorized Use: The software installed at Udyog Bhawan was not purchased from the plaintiff and was licensed for a different site.
- Prima Facie Piracy: The Court held that the copies were pirated and unauthorized.
- Relief to Tech Company: Interim relief was granted to the plaintiff, restraining further unauthorized use.
- Copyright Protection: The Court emphasized that unauthorized use of licensed software is not a mere contract breach but a serious violation of copyright law.
Legal Significance
This ruling is a milestone in India’s fight against software piracy. It reinforces several principles:
- Intellectual Property Rights: Even government departments must respect copyright laws.
- Corporate Governance: Ministries and PSUs cannot bypass licensing norms.
- Judicial Oversight: Courts will intervene to protect tech companies from piracy.
- Deterrence: The case sets a precedent that unauthorized software use can attract legal consequences.
Impact on Stakeholders
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- Tech Companies: Gain confidence that courts will protect their intellectual property.
- Government Departments: Must ensure proper licensing and avoid shortcuts.
- Legal Community: Welcomes clarity on copyright enforcement in public institutions.
- Citizens: Assurance that surveillance systems used by government are subject to legal scrutiny.
Broader Context
Software piracy has long been a challenge in India, with both private and public institutions sometimes failing to comply with licensing norms. This case is particularly significant because it involves a Union Ministry, raising concerns about governance and accountability.
The ruling also aligns with India’s broader push to strengthen intellectual property enforcement, especially as the country positions itself as a global hub for technology and innovation.
Conclusion
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The Delhi High Court’s ruling against the Commerce Ministry is a landmark in copyright enforcement. By granting relief to the tech company and exposing unauthorized software use, the Court has sent a strong message: piracy will not be tolerated, even within government departments.
This judgment is expected to influence future practices, ensuring that ministries and PSUs strictly adhere to licensing norms and respect intellectual property rights.
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