Delhi High Court Protects Jiostar’s Exclusive Cricket Rights: Dynamic Injunction Blocks Rogue Streaming Apps
Court restrains illegal apps and websites from streaming India’s South Africa and New Zealand tours.
Dynamic injunction ensures real-time blocking of infringing platforms, safeguarding consumer trust and media rights.
By Our Legal Reporter
New Delhi: November 15, 2025:
In a significant boost to India’s sports broadcasting industry, the Delhi High Court has granted a dynamic injunction to Jiostar India Pvt. Ltd., protecting its exclusive rights to stream India’s upcoming cricket tours against South Africa and New Zealand. The ruling, delivered by Justice Tejas Karia on November 11, 2025, restrains rogue mobile applications and websites from illegally streaming the matches.
The injunction will remain in force until March 3, 2026, covering 18 matches across both tours.
Background of the Case
Jiostar India, formerly known as Star India Pvt. Ltd., holds exclusive broadcasting and streaming rights for India’s international cricket matches. With the rise of rogue apps and websites offering free illegal streams, the company approached the Delhi High Court seeking urgent protection of its intellectual property.
Jiostar argued that unauthorized streaming not only violated its rights but also caused huge financial losses, undermined consumer trust, and discouraged investment in sports broadcasting.
Court’s Observations
The Delhi High Court agreed with Jiostar’s submissions, noting that:
- Rogue apps and websites were illegally streaming copyrighted content, depriving Jiostar of legitimate revenue.
- Unauthorized streams misled consumers and damaged the credibility of licensed platforms.
- A dynamic injunction was necessary to ensure real-time blocking of infringing platforms during live matches.
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Justice Tejas Karia emphasized that protecting intellectual property rights in sports broadcasting is essential for sustaining the industry.
What is a Dynamic Injunction?
A dynamic injunction is a legal order that allows rights holders to continuously update the list of infringing websites or apps during the validity of the injunction. This ensures that new rogue platforms can be blocked in real time without requiring fresh court orders.
In this case, Jiostar can notify internet service providers (ISPs) and app stores to block access to infringing platforms as soon as they are identified.
Broader Context: Piracy in Sports Broadcasting
Piracy has long plagued India’s sports broadcasting industry. Unauthorized streaming platforms often attract millions of viewers by offering free access to matches, undermining licensed broadcasters.
Industry reports estimate that piracy causes annual losses of over ₹3,000 crore to India’s sports and entertainment sector. The Delhi High Court’s ruling is seen as a major step toward curbing this menace.
Importance of the Ruling
- Protection of Exclusive Rights: Jiostar’s investments in acquiring broadcasting rights are safeguarded.
- Consumer Trust: Fans can rely on official platforms for high-quality, legal streams.
- Legal Precedent: The case strengthens India’s jurisprudence on dynamic injunctions in the digital age.
- Industry Growth: By curbing piracy, the ruling encourages further investment in sports broadcasting.
Reactions from Stakeholders
- Jiostar India: Officials welcomed the ruling, calling it a “landmark step in protecting sports broadcasting rights.”
- Legal Experts: Lawyers noted that the case reinforces the judiciary’s proactive role in tackling digital piracy.
- Fans and Consumers: Many expressed reliefs that official streams would remain reliable, without disruptions caused by rogue apps.
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Similar Cases in Recent Years
- In 2023, the court restrained rogue websites from streaming the ICC Cricket World Cup.
- In 2024, injunctions were issued to protect rights holders during the Indian Premier League (IPL).
These rulings highlight the judiciary’s consistent approach in protecting intellectual property in sports.
Implications for the Future
- Strengthened Enforcement: Rights holders can act swiftly against infringers.
- Global Impact: India’s proactive stance may influence other jurisdictions facing similar piracy challenges.
- Consumer Awareness: Fans may increasingly prefer official platforms, knowing that rogue apps face legal action.
- Technology Integration: Broadcasters may invest in advanced anti-piracy tools to complement legal measures.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Court’s dynamic injunction in favour of Jiostar India marks a turning point in India’s fight against sports broadcasting piracy. By restraining rogue apps and websites, the court has reinforced the importance of intellectual property rights, consumer trust, and fair competition.
For Jiostar, the ruling secures its investments and ensures exclusive control over India’s cricket broadcasts. For fans, it guarantees access to reliable, high-quality streams. For India’s judiciary, it sets a strong precedent in tackling digital piracy in the age of streaming.
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