Actor Suniel Shetty has filed a petition in the Bombay High Court, seeking redress against the misuse of his images and name. He alleged that some websites and social media pages are using his and his grandson's fake pictures for commercial gain. The court has reserved its judgment in the matter.
Entertainment: Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty has approached the Bombay High Court to protect his identity and image. In an interim application filed in court, he stated that several websites and social media platforms are commercially using his images without permission, which is harming his reputation. Shetty has requested the court to direct all such online platforms to immediately remove his images and prevent their future use. The bench of Justice Arif Doctor has reserved its judgment after hearing the matter.
Actor Objects to Unauthorized Use
In his petition filed in court, Suniel Shetty stated that he alone has the right to his personality and images. He informed that many websites are using his images for commercial purposes. Advertisements are being run on these websites using his name and face, even though he has no association with those companies.
According to the actor, some websites are misleading people using his name. He stated that such activities are not only damaging his image but also conveying a false message to the public that he is associated with these brands or companies.
Demand for Removal of Images from Court
In his interim application, Suniel Shetty requested the court to direct all those websites and social media pages to immediately remove his images. Furthermore, an order should also be issued preventing the unauthorized use of his name or image in the future.
Lawyer Virendra Saraf, appearing for the actor, told the court that some sites have even uploaded fake pictures of Suniel Shetty and his grandson. Saraf stated that these images are being used for commercial gain, which is completely illegal.
Images Also on Betting App and Real Estate Website
The lawyer informed the court that a real estate agency and a betting app have displayed Suniel Shetty's images on their websites. These images are being used to suggest that the actor endorses these brands, whereas, in reality, he has no association with these companies.
Following this, the court reserved its judgment after hearing arguments from both sides. The bench of Justice Arif Doctor stated that an order would be issued in the matter soon.
Many Stars Have Filed Similar Complaints Before
This case is not new. Previously, several celebrities have had to approach the court against the misuse of their identity and images. Big artists like Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor, and Anushka Sharma had also objected to the unauthorized use of their names or images.
These stars had clarified that no brand or website has the right to use their name, voice, or image without their permission. Courts have also ruled in favor of celebrities in such cases multiple times, establishing that one's identity is their personal property and cannot be misused.
Fraudulent Activities Rising on Social Media
In recent years, the number of fake content and misleading advertisements on social media platforms and websites has rapidly increased. Often, common people also fall prey to these false advertisements. To capitalize on the popularity of film and TV stars, some companies use their images.
Actor Suniel Shetty's step is considered a significant initiative against this growing trend. He has sent a clear message that the misuse of anyone's identity, image, or name will no longer be tolerated.
