Panel suggests means to curb film piracy

The committee on piracy constituted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting recommended an amendment to the Cable Television Networks Act. The panel suggested a licensing system for cable operators along the lines of the existing registration mechanism to combat piracy.

The Committee said multiplex and theatre operators should be responsible in preventing camcorders being carried inside theatres during the screening of films. This, the Committee held, should be made a pre-requisite for grant of licence to theatre owners.

Besides, content creators, rights holders, distributors, optical disc manufacturers and multiplex operators have been asked to come up with cost-effective solutions for converting traditional theatres in smaller towns into digital theatres and releasing genuine DVDs in bigger cities simultaneously with the launch of the films to curb piracy.

The Committee said internet service providers should be roped in to check internet piracy by asking them to initiate action against errant subscribers. States can enact legislation for preventive detention of audio and video pirates as done in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. Video pirates may also be brought under the definition of 'Goondas' under the Goonda Act.

The Committee suggested the price of legitimate optical discs need to be brought down to make filmed entertainment accessible to the people at a price they can afford.  Further, measures need to be undertaken to ensure high fidelity in genuine DVDs so as to dissuade the public from buying pirated versions.

To buttress the supply side, the committee in its report has recommended that traditional 35 mm screens be converted into digital ones so as to facilitate simultaneous release of films across the country and reduce distribution costs. "Digitalisation of screens, which have already taken roots in the country with the setting up of almost 3,000 such screens, need to be given impetus," it said in a statement.

The committee said the option of allowing copyright owners to register with the copyright office online should be explored. Alternatively, 'censor' certificates granted by the Central Board of Film Certification  should be treated as evidence of copyright.