PUNE: The Union government has issued a directive that playing Bollywood numbers at marriage ceremonies and related festivities would not invite action over copyright infringement.The move comes in response to the Centre accepting a plea made by the hospitality industry.For years, event planners, hotels and individuals organising weddings would remain embroiled in issues with copyright firms demanding that they pay licence fee for playing copyrighted Bollywood music during such functions.

But the demands were in violation of copyright laws, resulting in unnecessary disputes and financial burdens.

The Centre's decision aligns with principles laid out in the Copyright Act, ensuring that the playing of copyrighted music at weddings is well within legal boundaries.In the latest public notice, the department of promotion of industry and internal trade (DPIIT) said it had received multiple complaints from the public and stakeholders regarding the collection of royalties by copyright societies for playing music at marriage functions.

This is in violation of Section 52 (1) (za) of the Copyright Act 1957 and does not count as infringement under the entire Section 52.Specifically, Section 52 (1) (za) says playing a literary, dramatic or musical work or communicating it to the public during a genuine religious or official ceremony by the central government, state government or any local authority does not infringe copyright.

This includes marriage processions and other social festivities associated with weddings, which are considered religious ceremonies under this clause.DPIIT said copyright societies were directed to avoid actions that go against Section 52 (1) (za) to avoid legal action.

"Additionally, the general public is cautioned against complying with any unwarranted demands from individuals, organisations or copyright societies that breach the section," it said.Amit Sharma, president of the Poona Hoteliers Association and GM of Amanora The Fern, said, "As per the order on July 24, the government has clearly specified and stated that no permissions are required from any of the copyright societies for playing music during marriages and any associated festivities."The order comes as a relief to the general public and the hospitality industry, which bore the brunt of pressures from various copyright societies, he said.

"We welcome the move.

A few of our association members are facing unwarranted defamatory suits - meant to harass them - in different courts in cities like Kolkata and Guwahati.

Hopefully, the Centre's decision will help rein in the harassers and help the general public enjoy unhindered."