Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has become pervasive, infiltrating the digital landscape with remarkably realistic virtual representations of prominent figures, rendering them susceptible to identity theft and misuse. Recognizing this threat, several notable actors, including Amitabh Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, and Jackie Shroff, have taken steps to safeguard their identities by securing personality rights. Joining their ranks is renowned singer Kumar Sanu, who intends to seek legal protection from the judiciary.
Sanu's extensive career in the music industry has established him as a singer with an inimitable vocal texture, rendering his voice highly vulnerable to replication through AI. Expressing his concerns to HT City, Sanu revealed that, after concluding his USA concert tour, he plans to approach the court for an injunction against the unauthorized use of his likeness.
In Sanu's view, the proliferation of AI in contemporary technology poses significant risks to personal identity. The creation of vocal duplicates of singers is unacceptable, he stated. One must take necessary precautions to safeguard oneself through legal means. AI poses a serious threat to individuals' identities.
Sanu's concerns extend beyond the unauthorized use of his likeness to the wider issue of remaking classic songs. He maintains that, whenever possible, the original singers should be given the opportunity to re-record their iconic tracks. The indiscriminate use of AI in covers, he believes, should be prohibited.
Sanu questions the rationale behind producers and directors overlooking the talent of the original singers in favor of AI-generated vocal performances. He decries the current trend of disregarding melody and resorting to cheap lyrics that are forcibly imposed upon the public. They are destroying the very essence of music, he lamented. It's disheartening to see them remake old songs without involving the original singers who are still capable of delivering exceptional performances.
Sanu's sentiments resonate with a recent precedent set by the Delhi High Court in September 2023. The court granted an ex-parte, omnibus injunction restraining entities from using Anil Kapoor's name or any aspects of his personality without his authorization. A similar order was issued in favor of Amitabh Bachchan in November 2022.
As the digital realm continues to evolve, the protection of personal identities and the preservation of artistic integrity become paramount. Sanu's decision to seek legal safeguards serves as a reminder of the need to strike a balance between technological advancements and the safeguarding of individuals' rights.
