Bombay HC denies stay on Jagjit Singh tribute concert

Mumbai, Feb 18: The Bombay High Court on Thursday turned down a plea for a stay on a concert to be held this evening in tribute to late ghazal singer Jagjit Singh, refusing to grant interim relief to his wife Chitra Singh who had alleged copyright infringement and defamation.

Chitra Singh wanted a stay on the concert scheduled to be held this evening in suburban Sion as it violates her copyrights in the music. The concert would use live videos of Jagjit Singh's shows and showcase music by the same team of musicians who used to perform with him for two decades.

She further contended that the organisers of the show 'Panache Media' has not taken her consent to showcase her late husband's videos and shows. However, the organisers argued that they have already taken permission from the Indian Performing Rights Society to whom Jagjit Singh had assigned rights before his death.

The organisers told the court that they had obtained all other requisite permissions from all authorities. Justice S C Gupte after hearing both the sides was of the view that Chitra Singh has failed to prove her apprehensions of copyright infringement and defamation.

"There is nothing on record to show that the reproduction of Jagjit Singh's ghazals are going to harm his image and goodwill. Besides, any adverse order at this stage will cause irreparable damage to the defendants (organisers) who have already sold tickets to the show," the court said.

The court while refusing to grant interim relief by way of stay on the concert has posted the petition for final hearing.

PTI