Shruti Haasan Takes Legal Action Over Unauthorized Use of Her Identity
Actor Shruti Haasan has gone to the Bombay High Court to protect her rights regarding her personality and image. She claims that her identity is being misused through AI-generated content, deepfake videos, fake endorsements, and unauthorized merchandise.
Haasan’s legal suit names various Indian and international companies, social media platforms, and some unidentified individuals, often referred to as “John Doe” defendants, who she alleges are hosting or promoting content that violates her rights. Justice Abhay Ahuja has granted her permission to file this commercial suit, noting that some of the alleged issues extend beyond the court’s usual jurisdiction.
Allegations of Deepfake and Explicit Content
In her complaint, Shruti Haasan states that her name and likeness have been used without her consent to create AI-generated and altered content. This includes videos that misleadingly suggest romantic relationships with other actors. She has highlighted concerns over explicit images and videos that have been made using deepfake technology.
The plea points out that certain entities are using AI to manipulate her likeness and produce inappropriate content. Haasan is asking for an injunction to stop this unauthorized use, arguing that it infringes on her moral and publicity rights.
Defendants Include Social Media Platforms
The lawsuit names several businesses, including Mahalaxmi Arts and Craft Works, which allegedly sold posters featuring her name and image on Flipkart without permission. It also lists several platforms related to celebrity booking and endorsements, along with major social media companies like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X Corp, and Pinterest.
Haasan claims that these platforms not only host infringing content but actively facilitate it. She has requested that they remove such materials.
Seeking Damages and Permanent Injunctions
Through her work in various industries, Shruti Haasan has built significant commercial value. Her legal claim argues that her identity is strongly tied to her public persona, meaning any unauthorized exploitation is a problem.
Besides the removal of the offending content, Haasan is also seeking permanent injunctions, a John Doe order against unknown infringers, compensatory damages, and an accounting of any profits made through the unauthorized use of her identity.
