A Delhi-based app developer has decided to step back from his legal standoff with Reliance Industries over the contested JioHotstar.com domain.
A Delhi-based app developer has chosen to step away from his legal standoff with Reliance Industries over the JioHotstar.com domain, deciding to take the site offline and list it for sale on NameCheap. The developer previously acquired the domain just ahead of the anticipated merger between JioCinema and Hotstar, bringing significant attention to his story.
Here’s the full statement:
Support from Legal Experts Worldwide
In a heartfelt statement titled “Thank You People of Internet,” the developer expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from lawyers globally, who offered their guidance pro bono. Legal professionals from India, the UK, and the United States reached out, assisting him through the complexities of the case. Despite this support, the developer shared that the publicity has brought considerable stress for his family, with his parents especially concerned.
Legal Pressures and Family Concerns Lead to Decision
Although many legal experts advised him to retain the domain, the developer realized that he lacked the resources for a prolonged battle against a major corporation like Reliance. He acknowledged the challenges of pursuing a favorable verdict without a clear legal pathway, noting that his position against such a powerful entity was limited.
Hope for a Fair Offer from Reliance
Throughout the ordeal, the developer emphasized his intentions were not malicious; he only hoped the domain could help fund his education. Despite the uncertainty, he remains hopeful that Reliance will make a fair offer for the domain.
Listing Domain for Sale on NameCheap
In light of the emotional and legal toll, the developer is offering JioHotstar.com on NameCheap at one-tenth of his initial ₹1 crore asking price, encouraging buyers, especially those in countries where Jio is not trademarked, to consider the domain. He concluded by reiterating his wish for a fair future: “I held no ill intentions, just the hope for a better tomorrow. This site will go offline soon.”
