In a decisive ruling that highlights the risks of unauthorized software use, the Delhi High Court has issued a permanent injunction against Indian IT services company Chetu India Pvt. Ltd., after finding that it was operating over 200 computer systems using pirated software from global vendors including Microsoft, Adobe, and Quest Software.
Widespread Infringement Exposed
Based on detailed investigations and two rounds of court-appointed inspections, the court confirmed that Chetu had installed and used unlicensed software across a large portion of its infrastructure — including Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, Flash, and Quest TOAD. In total, 208 computers were found to be running unauthorized copies, and 51 machines were seized on-site during enforcement actions.
No Legal Defense, No Licensing Evidence
Chetu and its system administrator, Satveer Gaur, failed to provide license documentation during inspection or present any credible legal defense in court. The company also failed to cross-examine the plaintiffs’ witnesses or contest key evidence. The High Court concluded that:
“Defendants… have been using unauthorized / unlicensed versions of the plaintiffs’ software by installing them on their various computer systems and using [them] in day to day business activities.”
Permanent Injunction and Destruction Order
The court imposed a permanent ban on the defendants from using or distributing any pirated software. Additionally, all infringing materials were ordered to be handed over for destruction within two months, sending a clear message about the legal consequences of software piracy.
Reputational Fallout
This ruling places Chetu India Pvt. Ltd. in public legal record as a confirmed copyright infringer — a damaging outcome for any IT firm claiming to deliver secure or compliant solutions. Despite claims of being a “Microsoft Gold Partner,” the company failed to justify its licensing status in court.
ITCA’s Position
ITCA views this as a landmark enforcement victory:
“This case illustrates the scale of abuse we continue to uncover — over 200 machines in a single office running pirated software. Beyond damages, it’s the reputational harm and permanent legal injunction that truly hold weight. No serious company wants to risk ending up in this position.”
