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Delhi High Court Reviews Mohak Mangal’s Plea to Transfer ANI’s Copyright Suit to IP Division Under Commercial Courts Act
The Delhi High Court has taken up a petition filed by popular YouTuber Mohak Mangal, seeking the transfer of a copyright and trademark infringement suit filed by news agency ANI from the Patiala House District Court to the High Court’s Intellectual Property (IP) Division.
Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani heard the matter on July 18, 2025, and raised critical questions about the jurisdiction of a single-judge bench under Section 15(5) of the Commercial Courts Act, 2015.
> “Can I even hear this petition? Shouldn’t this go to the Division Bench (DB)?” the judge remarked.
Background of the Dispute
ANI filed a suit in the Patiala House Court, accusing Mangal of copyright and trademark violations through content on his YouTube channel.
Mangal’s lawyer, Advocate Nakul Dewan, argued that since 6 out of the 10 videos cited in the ANI case are already under scrutiny in the defamation matter pending before the IP Division, it would be efficient and consistent to consolidate both cases.
ANI Opposes Transfer Plea
Siddhant Kumar, representing ANI, opposed the plea. He contended that the causes of action differ—with the Patiala House matter addressing IP rights and the High Court case focusing on defamation. Therefore, Kumar maintained, the Commercial Appellate Division alone has the power to transfer suits between courts.
Court’s Observation and Next Steps
Justice Bhambhani did not dismiss the petition but instead raised serious questions about legal maintainability. The court directed the petitioner to produce case laws and documentation supporting the claim that a single-judge bench can entertain such a transfer application.
The judge noted:
> “You’re asking me to exercise a jurisdiction that may not belong to this bench.”
The matter is now listed for further hearing on July 25, 2025, before a coordinated IP Division bench, depending on the Chief Justice’s directions.
For court updates, visit the Delhi High Court website
Implications of the Case
This case brings attention to the procedural complexities of India’s IP litigation system, particularly when the same content forms the basis of multiple legal disputes. If the court allows the transfer, it may streamline litigation and reduce the risk of conflicting judgments.
It could also set a judicial precedent on how courts manage parallel legal issues involving online content creators and media organizations.
Disclaimer:
This news article is a journalistic rephrasing based on publicly available legal information and reports. It does not offer legal advice. For official legal documentation or advice, consult a qualified legal professional or access official court websites.