Mumbai Police register case against 'Chhaava' piracy, over 1,800 illegal links found

Mumbai Police have registered a case against the illegal online distribution of the Bollywood film Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal, after a complaint was filed by August Entertainment Pvt Ltd. The anti-piracy agency, appointed by Maddock Films Pvt Ltd, reported that the film had been illegally shared through 1,818 online links, significantly affecting its box office revenue.

Chhaava, which hit theaters on February 14, 2025, has been a box office success, grossing over ₹500 crore worldwide. However, the rampant digital piracy has raised concerns within the film industry about the financial and creative damage caused by unauthorized distribution. Mumbai Police swiftly took action and initiated a case under multiple legal provisions aimed at curbing copyright violations.

The case was registered under CR No. 23/2025 at the South Cyber Police Station. Authorities have invoked Sections 316(2) and 308(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Sections 51, 63, and 65A of the Copyright Act, Section 6AA of the Cinematograph Act, 1952 (Amendment 2023), and Sections 43 and 66 of the Information Technology Act. These stringent laws target digital piracy and hold violators accountable for illegal distribution.

Police officials have confirmed that an investigation is underway to track down the sources of the leaked copies. Cyber forensic teams are analyzing digital footprints to identify those responsible for uploading and distributing the film across multiple websites. The authorities are also working with internet service providers (ISPs) and digital platforms to take down the infringing links.

The case highlights the growing challenge of piracy in the Indian film industry, where big-budget productions frequently fall victim to illegal distribution. Filmmakers and production houses have been advocating for stricter enforcement, as piracy not only affects box office collections but also hampers the livelihoods of countless professionals working in the industry.

As the investigation continues, Mumbai Police have urged the public to avoid accessing pirated content and support the industry by watching films through legal channels. Further arrests and legal actions are expected as law enforcement intensifies its crackdown on digital piracy.