A Delhi-based app developer is facing legal threats from Reliance Industries after he requested ₹1 crore for the domain name “JioHotstar.com,” which he purchased in anticipation of a merger between JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. The developer, who identifies as “a dreamer,” claims he did not infringe on any trademarks since “JioHotstar” did not exist at the time of his acquisition. Reliance has denied his request and is reportedly considering legal action, leaving the developer feeling overwhelmed by the corporate giant’s response.
Developer’s Aspirations and Legal Challenges
The anonymous techie acquired the domain last year, hoping to capitalise on a potential merger between JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar, driven by reports of declining viewership for the latter. Recently, he revealed that he requested ₹1 crore from Reliance to fund his Executive MBA studies at Cambridge University. Ambujesh Yadav, an executive at Reliance, rejected this proposal and indicated that the company would pursue legal action. Expressing his disappointment, the developer stated, “I hope they will reconsider this kind request. I wish such a large group could help.”
Background of the Domain Purchase
The decision to purchase “JioHotstar.com” was influenced by speculation regarding Disney+ Hotstar’s future in light of its declining user base. The developer believed that Viacom18, backed by Reliance, would be a significant player in acquiring Disney+ Hotstar. He drew parallels with Reliance’s previous acquisition strategies and felt that “JioHotstar” would be an apt name for any future merger. He maintains that no trademark existed for “JioHotstar” at the time he bought the domain and is now concerned about potentially losing it if legal action proceeds.
Questions and Answers
- What prompted the developer to buy the JioHotstar domain?
- The developer purchased the domain in early 2023 after speculating about a merger between JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar, believing it could be valuable post-merger.
- How much did the developer ask Reliance for the domain?
- He requested ₹1 crore (approximately £93,345), which he stated would cover his tuition fees for an Executive MBA program at Cambridge University.
- What was Reliance’s response to the developer’s request?
- Reliance denied his request and indicated they would pursue legal action against him for owning the domain.
- What legal arguments does the developer present?
- The developer claims he did not infringe any trademarks since “JioHotstar” was not registered at the time of his purchase in 2023.
- What are the potential implications of this dispute?
- If Reliance proceeds with legal action, it could set a precedent regarding cybersquatting laws in India and how companies protect their brand names against domain acquisitions made in anticipation of corporate mergers.
