Abstract

The paper analyzes the legislative framework of the Indian Copyright Act, 2012 to understand the protection of sports moves under Indian laws talking about the idea of copyright protection and how it strikes a balance between the public interest in digital environments and the rights of copyright holders. bringing attention to the shortcomings and problems with the current copyright regulations, particularly as they pertain to the defence of athletic moves. The definition of "performer" was addressed in u/s 2(qq) of this already-existing piece of legislation, however the concern here is whether athletes qualify as performers. If yes then should the sports moves be eligible for copyright protection under the Indian laws. mentioning specific examples of sports moves, such as MS Dhoni's Helicopter shot, rise of Connor McGregor walking style as a recent example: creative punch from an unexpected angle in an unexpected moment secured him victory in his championship bout in under 13 seconds, Ronaldo’s Suii celebration and many other movments to illustrate the subject matter of sports moves. The research evaluates the principle of 'Ejusdem Generis' in interpreting copyright laws and discusses the relevance of the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty of 1996 in protecting performers' rights. It analyzes the economic significance of sports moves delving with the athletes personel rights and their potential for copyright protection.

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