Section 6AA of The Cinematograph Act, 1952
1[6AA. Prohibition of unauthorised recording--No person shall use any audio-visual recording device in a place licensed to exhibit films with the intention of making or transmitting or attempting to make or transmit or abetting the making or transmission of an infringing copy of such film or a part thereof. Explanation.--For the purposes of this section, the expression "audio-visual recording device" means a digital or analogue photographic or video camera, or any other technology or device capable of enabling the recording or transmission of a copyrighted cinematographic film or any part thereof, regardless of whether audio-visual recording is the sole or primary purpose of the device.]
Summary
- It is strictly illegal to use any recording device inside a licensed cinema to secretly copy a movie.
- This law covers actually making a copy, transmitting the movie to someone else, trying to do either of those things, or helping someone else do it.
- A recording device includes digital or analogue cameras, phones, or any technology that can record video or audio, even if recording is not the device's main purpose.
Practical examples
FAQ
1. Is it illegal even if I only record a five minute clip of the movie?
Yes, the law prohibits recording or attempting to record the film or any part thereof.
2. What if I use a device that is not primarily a camera, like a smart watch?
It is still illegal. The law covers any device capable of recording or transmitting the film, regardless of whether that is its sole or primary purpose.
3. Does this apply if I record a movie playing on my TV at home?
No, this specific rule only applies to recording inside a place licensed to exhibit films like a movie theater.
Test yourself
Q1.Under Section 6AA of The Cinematograph Act, 1952, which location is specifically mentioned as the place where unauthorized recording is prohibited?
Q2.Under Section 6AA of The Cinematograph Act, 1952, what must a person's intention be for the act to be considered a violation?
Q3.Under Section 6AA of The Cinematograph Act, 1952, how is an audio-visual recording device defined regarding its primary function?
Q4.Under Section 6AA of The Cinematograph Act, 1952, which of the following actions is treated the same as actually making a recording?