During last week’s PWS Session, Shivanshi Gupta, Associate, led a discussion on ‘Would granting copyright to video game streaming be detrimental to the interests of video game developers?’ The session began with a discussion on the growing content of players interacting with video games and debated if players live-streaming playing video games can be considered a performance or a unique piece of work rather than mere consumption. The members further debated on whether the type of game being played in a live-stream had a bearing on a live-stream being considered a separate piece of work from the game itself. The possibility of statutory licensing for live game streaming as a means to balance the interests of video game developers and players was discussed as well. The session was fruitful as the members were able to arrive at a consensus that granting rights to live streamers is essential in the current scenario, recognizing the evolving dynamics of video game interactions and streaming.

A ‘Legal Issues Seminar – General IP’ (LIS-GIP) was conducted by Sucharitha Banda, Associate on “Whether IPR Suits Valued Below Minimum Specified Value Shall be Filed as Ordinary Suits?”. The seminar explored the positions taken by different High Courts on the district courts’ jurisdiction to try IPR suits of commercial nature valued under the minimum specified value i.e., INR 3 Lakhs. The members delved into the statutory intent behind provisions of the Commercial Courts Act, 2015 and concluded that suits below the minimum specified value should be filed as ordinary suits before the District Court. The discussion also included an assessment of the Court’s outlook while previously ruling that suits below the minimum specified value should also be listed before a commercial court.

The presentation can be accessed here.

ALG’s Sheja Ehtesham and Ashwani Balayan will be attending the International Trademark Association (INTA) Annual Meeting 2024 in Atlanta from May18- 22. This years’ theme is “The Business of Innovation,” which focuses on how creativity, change, and technology are transforming how IP professionals conduct business. Curated programs focusing on practical tips and advice from recognized IP professionals in relation to novel IP matters and how to navigate the evolving landscape as well as sessions on what business leaders expect from IP professionals in the age of technology are highlights of the upcoming meeting.

If you would like to meet in Atlanta, please reach out.

Interns – Rohan Aryan Srivastava and Utkarsh Dwivedi have commenced their General IP Internship with the firm’s law practice.

We hope their stay in the firm during the 4 week period of their internship will be mutually enriching and that the firm and they will learn exciting things from each other!

ALG is pleased to announce the elevation of Sneha Tandon to Partner. With this, the strength of Partners and Counsels at ALG grows to seven.

Sneha’s practice at the firm includes intellectual property prosecution and filings strategies, and enforcement, with a focus on retail, fashion, and hospitality industries.

On her elevation to partnership, Sneha Tandon says “Becoming a partner at ALG is a significant milestone I cherish deeply. My journey here has been truly fulfilling, and I’m excited to champion our shared vision for the future. I am committed to upholding the values and standards of excellence that define our organization, and I am eager to contribute to our continued growth and success.”

In addition, Yash Raj and Anurathna Mathivanan have also been promoted to Senior Associate positions. Anurathna, a National Law School, Trichy graduate, forms part of the firm’s prosecution and transactions practice, and Yash, a National Law School, Ranchi graduate, forms part of the firm’s enforcement and litigation practice.

Managing Partner Sheja Ehtesham says “I am delighted to welcome Sneha to the fold of Partners at the firm. She is an astute leader and her experience and capabilities will greatly enrich the firm’s practice, growth and institutional strength.

I also extend my congratulations to Yash and Anurathna.  Their promotions are a testament to their capabilities, efforts and dedication to our clients and matters entrusted to them. ”