We usually use books, references, phrases, quotes to express our view or thoughts. But we do not know who is the creator or originator of those sources. Where do they come from? Or who is the maker of the source? Though it generally would not land you in trouble because it is casual to use phrases, poems, quotes to express ones thoughts and views , but it would definitely put you trouble you when you are using it on a platform without permission or without due credit to the writer. This can happen the other way around as well. Your data can also be used without your permission and your writing could easily be copied.
Copyright protection for literary work
Works of literary nature such as poetry are protected under the copyright law in India which means no one can reproduce market, adapt any work which is not theirs. Copyright registration is not necessary if you decide to publish the poetry on your blog, or other social media account. As a precaution, you should mention that the copyright belongs to you on your website or social media account. If you are publishing the poetry elsewhere, you must check their copyright policy. Most third party platform will make you sign your copyright over them. If you do not want then ask them what their copy policy is before sending over your material.
If you believe your work is of value then you can get it registered for copyright, this way, if anyone does infringe your work your registration will be prima facie proof of your ownership. Allow people to contact you for the permission to use your work. This way you can keep track of reuse of your literary work and claim credit for it.
Keep checking search engines and places where your literary work may pop-up. If you find someone using your work without credit, ask them to give you credit or pull down the work from the website.
How to tackle, when infringed
If you find that someone has infringed the copyright you own over your literary work, then you can file a remedy against them. The district court has the necessary jurisdiction to hear copyright claims. You can approach them in civil suit for damage.
Injunction, can also be filed, which simply means an order or warning issued by the court which will stop the opposing party from doing something. So, by getting an order for injunction, you will be able to stop the opposite party from using your intellectual property. In this digital world, it is becoming increasingly difficult to protect ones creative work. A simple Google search can give someone the material they are looking for and that too from numerous sources. A simple Google search can give someone the material they are looking for and that too from numerous sources. The same can be copied and used in the blink of eye.
