After the stick, comes the carrot: As expected (read this) Photographic Performance Limited (PPL), a key part of the Indian Music Industry (IMI), is now offering illegal music websites an Internet License. This move is expected, and comes shortly after the IMI got orders from the Calcutta High Court directing 388 ISPs to block over 104 websites. A note from the IMI claims that "This unprecedented initiative has resulted into a series of unlicensed Music Websites approaching IMI to help them seek Internet licenses." Smashits, Abhesh Verma & Saavn? The IMI note states: 'One SmasHits.com Managing Director and Founder Mr. Abhesh Verma has been in discussion with for future growth in partnership with the Indian Music Industry. Speaking after obtaining the license Mr. Abhesh Verma said, “we completely endorse and support the IMI activity towards eradicating piracy."' Last I checked, Verma was the CEO of Saavn Interactive, and Smashits was a part of Saavn. Verma's LinkedIn profile lists him as the CEO of Saavn Interactive, Smashits and IndiAds. I don't think the Smashits example should be seen as an indication that illegal music sites are queuing up for an Internet license; this doesn't appear to be a recent development. We've asked the IMI to clarify on when Smashits got its Internet License. No Comments On Rates We requested the IMI for the pricing of the Internet license, and they're not willing to share pricing details. The response we got via email: "The rates have always been standardized, however we would not be able to help you with details pertaining to the cost of the licence or the standardized rate card…
