New Delhi: A Delhi-based app developer found himself in hot water after purchasing the JioHotstar.com domain amid rumors of a potential merger between JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. Hoping to profit from the situation, the developer offered the domain to Reliance Industries, asking either Rs 1 crore or support for his Cambridge University studies. However, Reliance refused the offer and warned of legal action.
The developer’s website initially displayed a message explaining his intent: if the merger materialized, he wished to use the domain sale proceeds to fund his studies. But things soon escalated, with Reliance dismissing the proposal and threatening legal consequences.
Developer’s Cambridge Dream Fuels Domain Dispute
The developer revealed that he bought the JioHotstar domain in 2023 after hearing about the possible merger. His goal was to sell it to Reliance if the merger went through, helping him fund his dream of studying at Cambridge University. The domain had a landing page that read, “If the merger happens, I can fulfill my dream of studying at Cambridge.”
On October 24, the developer shared an update stating that a senior executive from Reliance, identified as Ambujesh Yadav, AVP, Commercials, had reached out to discuss the domain. During this conversation, the developer asked for £93,345 (Rs 1.01 crore), matching the tuition fees for his chosen course at Cambridge.
Reliance Rejects Offer, Threatens Legal Action
Instead of negotiating, Reliance rejected the developer’s request and issued a legal threat. In response, the developer expressed disappointment, stating, “I hoped such a large group would help, but now they’re threatening legal action. I don’t have the strength to fight them.”
The developer also reached out to the legal community for assistance. He claimed that since the JioHotstar name did not exist as a trademark when he purchased the domain, there was no infringement. However, he admitted that Reliance might soon take control of the domain, adding, “If any legal professional can help, I would be grateful.”
This unusual dispute highlights the legal risks of domain speculation, especially when major corporate giants like Reliance are involved. The case serves as a reminder of the fine line between opportunity and infringement in the digital age.
