Other than WhatsApp LLC, the DoT, GoI and unknown administrators of the offending groups (identified by their mobile numbers) are also parties to the suit and notice has been issued to all defendants.

DB Corp had earlier approached WhatsApp through a legal notice with a request to block/ takedown the offending groups as they were infringing the copyright and registered trademark(s) of the Dainik Bhaskar Group. WhatsApp, however, in its response had declined the request seeking production of a court order.

D B Corp provides access to its eNewspapers on a subscription model through its official website and mobile application. Users are neither permitted to download the eNewspapers, nor are they permitted to share and circulate the same. Illegal and unauthorised sharing of eNewspapers, across publications, has become rampant and is prejudicial to the interests of the publishers.

Being aggrieved by such illegal and unauthorised sharing and circulation of its eNewspapers, DB Corp considered it necessary to initiate legal action to protect its proprietary interests and, as aforesaid, has been granted an ad-interim ex-parte injunction in its favour.