Demand probe into company’s affairs
TEAM HERALD
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PANJIM: MLAs on Wednesday demanded an inquiry into the affairs of anti-piracy company Indian Performing Rights Society Limited (IPRS) claiming that they were indulging in ‘extortion’.
“The Indian Performing Rights Society Limited is involved in extortion. The dance groups, which are earning by performing in a few hotels, are facing problems because of this company. They claim that they have a right to charge for the music played. Who gave them the right?” Independent MLA Vijai Sardesai said.
The State government should verify whether they have a right to charge for performing music under anti-piracy laws, Sardesai stated and recalled that even Kala Academy had been fined by IPRS.He was supported by BJP MLA Michael Lobo, who pointed out that the IPRS has been sending letters to the various restaurants playing music.
“They are asking lakhs of rupees from the performers or the restaurants, which play recorded music,” he said, claiming that for one of the establishments was billed Rs 21.51 lakh by IPRS.
Lobo demanded that the House Committee should be formed to investigate into the conduct of this company. The members were speaking while participating in the discussion on demand for grants for tourism.
St Andre MLA Vishnu Surya Wagh also demanded action against IPRS through a House committee.
IPRS is the only authorized body which is empowered to issue licences to persons/restaurants for allowing public performance of music.
