The copyright dispute between global media outlets and AI platforms has escalated, as Japan’s leading publishers Nikkei and Asahi Shimbun file high-profile lawsuits against AI search engine Perplexity, accusing it of unauthorised use and storage of their journalistic content.
On August 26, Nikkei and Asahi Shimbun initiated legal action against Perplexity AI in Tokyo District Court. The case is drawing international attention, with India’s Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA), representing major players across digital, print, and TV, closely monitoring the developments.
According to DNPA, the case has struck a chord with Indian media, as domestic publishers also contend with unauthorised content extraction by international AI firms.
The DNPA highlighted that publishers’ meticulously crafted content is used by AI to produce answers without proper credit, leading to financial harm and eroding trust in journalism when AI misrepresents the original work.
According to the DNPA, multiple Indian news organisations have begun or are preparing lawsuits against AI companies for copyright breaches. The Asia News International case filed in November 2024 at the Delhi High Court marks India’s inaugural significant legal battle against OpenAI.
DNPA reports ANI alleges ChatGPT used its copyrighted content without permission and created false interview claims harming its reputation. While OpenAI questioned the court’s jurisdiction due to its overseas status, Indian legal experts argue it remains liable under local laws.
DNPA calls AI’s use of journalists’ work unauthorized “commercial free riding.” It highlights India’s lack of clear laws on AI training with copyrighted content, risking journalism’s revenue and public access to trustworthy news.
The global dispute over AI and copyright is intensifying. In the US, The New York Times has sued OpenAI. European publishers like Condé Nast and Der Spiegel pursue licensing or restrict AI access. Meanwhile, Japan’s Nikkei and Asahi Shimbun seek over ¥2.2 billion in damages, underscoring the issue’s gravity.
The BBC has demanded AI platforms stop using its content, while some AI companies pursue revenue-sharing with publishers. The DNPA calls on India’s government to enforce regulations requiring AI firms to get consent and share revenue fairly.
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DNPA stresses that AI progress shouldn’t compromise journalism, a democratic pillar. Indian publishers seek a fair licensing system ensuring compensation, credible news, and responsible AI use. DNPA pledges to protect journalism’s economic and ethical foundations.
