The Delhi High Court classified ANI articles under Section 52 for AI training, curbing OpenAI’s claims. This interim order could reshape the landscape of AI‑driven content in India.

Key Takeaways

  • The Delhi High Court placed ANI’s articles under Section 52, treating AI training as private research.
  • Judge Amit Bansal found no proof that ChatGPT reproduced or memorised ANI’s reporting.
  • The 135‑page interim order can be appealed by ANI, leaving the legal battle open.

Asian News International (ANI) sued OpenAI in November 2024, alleging that the firm used its content to train ChatGPT without permission or payment. This case marks the first detailed attempt by an Indian court to situate AI training within the Copyright Act.

Core Judicial Findings

On July 24, 2026, Justice Amit Bansal ruled that storing ANI’s articles for ChatGPT training falls under Section 52 of India’s Copyright Act, which exempts private use and research from infringement. The judgment noted ANI failed to demonstrate that ChatGPT actually reproduced or “memorised” its reporting.

Historical Background

Every AI copyright dispute pivots on the concept of "fair use" (U.S.) or "fair dealing" (India, UK). Wire services such as PTI, Reuters, AP license verified facts to other outlets, which then rewrite them. AI models, however, ingest facts without attribution, potentially eroding the market for original works.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this ruling could set a precedent for how Indian courts treat AI‑training datasets, potentially limiting large tech firms while protecting local news agencies’ revenue streams.

"Respecting copyright in AI training will dictate the future of innovation," says Dr. Ananya Sharma, IP law professor.
Did You Know?: This is the first time an Indian court has explicitly categorized AI training under the Copyright Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ANI’s case completely resolved? No, the order is interim and ANI retains the right to appeal.

Will this decision affect other AI companies? Yes, it may establish a legal benchmark for the use of training data in India.