Tata Play gets TDSAT interim relief in Rs 128 crore dispute with Sony

The dispute arises from a long-standing commercial relationship between the two companies, with Tata Play challenging a May 21, 2025 demand notice, asserting the claimed amount is not payable despite paying nearly ₹4,000 crore over 10 years

In a major interim relief for Tata Play, the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has stayed a ₹128.42 crore demand raised by Culver Max Entertainment (formerly Sony Pictures Networks India), while directing the direct-to-home (DTH) operator to deposit ₹40 crore within two weeks.

The dispute stems from a long-standing commercial relationship between the two companies. Tata Play, represented by senior advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Meet Malhotra, challenged the May 21, 2025, demand notice, arguing that the claimed amount was neither due nor payable. The DTH provider pointed out that it has paid nearly ₹4,000 crore to Culver Max over the last decade and continues to pay around ₹700 crore annually.

The tribunal was told that Tata Play had already responded to an earlier communication from Culver Max in March 2025, which had sought ₹300 crore, by making substantial payments. However, despite this, Culver Max issued a fresh notice demanding an additional ₹128.42 crore—prompting the legal challenge.

Tata Play contended that Culver Max had failed to accurately account for set-off amounts and that its calculation of dues was flawed. The company further alleged that there was a breach of key provisions under the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Standards of Quality of Service and Consumer Protection (Addressable Systems) Regulations, 2017—specifically Regulations 17 and 35.

Disputed dues under tribunal scrutiny

After examining the agreements, annexures, and amendments submitted by Tata Play, the tribunal found a prima facie case in its favour. It noted that the balance of convenience supported granting interim relief and that denying such relief could lead to irreparable harm.

Culver Max, represented by senior advocate Abhishek Malhotra, indicated a willingness to withdraw the static image or scroll being displayed on channels retransmitted by Tata Play, provided the interim payment was made. The tribunal accepted this assurance and restrained Culver Max from displaying any such content on Tata Play’s platform.

The ₹40 crore payment, TDSAT clarified, would be made without prejudice to the rights of either party and will be adjusted based on the outcome of the case. The tribunal has scheduled the next hearing for July 23, 2025, and has advised both parties to attempt a reconciliation of accounts and issues ahead of that date.

This interim order provides Tata Play temporary relief and sets the stage for a deeper legal review of financial obligations and regulatory compliance in one of the country’s significant broadcasting disputes.