Legal action to be sought against PSM for airing Hiyala’s Eid song claiming it was “gifted”

Hiyala Group has revealed that they have decided to take legal action against Public Service Media (PSM) for broadcasting their Eid song on Television Maldives (TVM), a channel of PSM, without permission.

TVM aired Hiyala Group’s Eid song, claiming it was gifted.

The Eid song released by Hiyala Group has garnered over 92,000 views on YouTube since its debut, quickly gaining traction across social media platforms. The festive track has also been trending widely, reflecting its growing popularity among audiences.

Hiyala Group's Eid song was broadcast on Sunday as part of TVM's Eid coverage. TVM claimed that the song was broadcast as part of their Eid coverage, stating it was gifted.

However, Hiyala Group has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the matter. In a statement posted on social media platform Facebook, the group voiced serious concern about the song being broadcast without authorization. They clarified that neither PSM nor any other party had been granted permission to air the track.

Speaking to RaajjeMV, Hiyala Group Manager Ahmed Abdulla emphasized that the song represents the hard work and dedication of the artists involved, and their efforts deserve proper recognition. He reiterated that no television channel, including PSM, had been granted permission to broadcast the track.

Further, he said that as soon as the relevant authorities open for services after the Eid holidays, they will file a complaint to investigate the matter and take all possible legal actions.

According to the Copyright and Related Rights Act, broadcasting a creation is an economic right belonging to the creator or the owner of the creation. A third party can only use it with the permission of the owner.

PSM is yet to comment regarding these claims.