Keeping Pace with Legal Change
The Supreme Court said in the case of Rikhab Birani v. State of Uttar Pradesh that civil problems like breach of contract cannot be considered criminal cheating unless there is proof that the person who broke the contract was dishonest from the start.
Bollywood star Akshay Kumar is suing Paresh Rawal for ₹25 crore, alleging breach of contract after the actor exited Hera Pheri 3. Kumar’s production house claims Rawal’s departure violated their agreement, causing delays, reshoot costs, and revenue losses, seeking damages under Sections 39 and 73 of the Indian Contract Act.
As a cautionary story regarding the dangers of ignoring contractual responsibilities in the pursuit of agility, the dispute between Maddock Films and PVR Inox over Bhool Chuk Maaf serves as an example. While the proliferation of over-the-top (OTT) platforms provide filmmakers with new options, it also necessitates careful attention to the agreements that are already in place. The Bombay High Court is already preparing for additional hearings, and it is highly possible that this case will have a significant impact on future distribution deals. This will ensure that both producers and exhibitors are able to strike the appropriate balance between innovation and contractual safety.
