Jubin Nautiyal approaches Delhi HC to protect personality rights - Exclusive

In recent years, several Indian celebrities have approached the courts to safeguard their personality rights amid growing concerns over the unauthorised use of names, images and voices, particularly in the digital space. The latest to take this step is singer Jubin Nautiyal, who has filed a petition before the Delhi High Court seeking legal protection against the misuse of his identity. The petition has been submitted and is expected to be heard after the holidays, once the court reopens.Explaining his decision, Jubin said, “Music has always been very personal to me. My name, my face and my voice are not just parts of my profession; they are deeply connected to who I am and to a journey that the audience has supported with immense love over the years. When these are used without consent, it affects more than just my work. It impacts the emotional bond I share with my listeners and my family, who have stood beside me through every step.”He added, “This step is taken with humility and responsibility. It is not only for myself, but also in the hope that it helps uphold respect for every artiste who gives their heart to their craft. I trust that the Hon’ble Court will ensure that personal identities are treated with care, integrity and consideration.”Explaining the legal grounds for the petition, his lawyer Suvigya Vidyarthi, who is part of the singer’s legal team comprising Vivek Vidyarthi, Sarvagya Vidyarthi, Nischay Chaudhary, Apoorva Singh and Rushali Rawat, said, “The plea seeks recognition of Jubin Nautiyal’s persona, including his name, image and voice, as his exclusive personality right, protected from unauthorised commercial use or digital manipulation. In light of increasing instances of voice imitation, fake social media accounts and unlicensed merchandise, my client has sought judicial restraint against such misuse, along with appropriate declaratory and injunctive reliefs. An artiste’s identity is a legally protectable asset, and any exploitation of it must be subject to the artist’s free, informed and prior consent.”