In a landmark decision, the Bombay High Court has sided with singer-composer Arijit Singh in a case concerning the unauthorized use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to mimic his voice and personality traits. Justice R I Chagla, on July 26, issued an interim order that restrains eight online platforms from exploiting Singh’s “personality rights” without his consent. The platforms have been directed to remove all content that uses his voice, image, or other personal attributes, as well as any voice conversion tools.
The court’s ruling comes after Arijit Singh filed a petition against the platforms for synthesizing artificial sound recordings that mimic his voice and mannerisms. Singh, known for his selective approach to public endorsements and commercialization of his personal traits, argued that his “personality rights” were being violated by these AI technologies.
Justice Chagla’s judgment highlighted the susceptibility of celebrities, especially performers, to unauthorized AI-generated content. He pointed out that while freedom of speech allows for critique and commentary, it does not extend to the commercial exploitation of a celebrity’s persona without permission.
The judge condemned the platforms for facilitating “unauthorized appropriation and manipulation” of Singh’s voice, emphasizing that such actions undermine the celebrity’s ability to control deceptive uses of their identity. He further noted that these platforms enable internet users to create counterfeit sound recordings and videos, potentially harming the reputation and personal identity of the individuals involved.
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During the proceedings, Singh’s lawyer, Hiren Kamod, stressed the singer’s humble origins and significant reputation, underscoring the importance of protecting such personal elements from misuse. The petition, filed through Legasis Partners, sought to shield Singh’s name, voice, image, and other personal attributes from unlicensed commercial exploitation.
