Mohak Mangal indicts ANI of extorting YouTubers with copyright strikes. Learn about the controversy and how to support creators.
Table Of Contents
Introduction
In the fast-paced world of YouTube, creators like Mohak Mangal create fact-based, engaging content that informs and inspires.
However, what happens when a powerful news agency allegedly uses its influence to threaten these creators?
Mohawk Mangal, a popular Indian YouTuber, has sparked a heated controversy by accusing Asian News International (ANI) of extorting creators through copyright strikes.
In his viral video “Dear ANI,” Mohawk alleges that ANI demanded lakhs of rupees to remove strikes and threatened to delete his channel.
This blog post dives into the Mohak Mangal-ANI controversy, why it matters, and how you can help spread awareness to protect content creators.
What Is The Mohak Mangal-ANI Controversy?
Mohak Mangal, known for his in-depth videos on social and political issues, recently revealed a troubling experience with ANI, one of India’s largest news agencies.
In his video, he claims ANI issued two copyright strikes against his YouTube channel for using short clips: 11 seconds in a 16-minute video and 9 seconds in a 38-minute video.
YouTube’s policy is clear: three strikes can lead to channel deletion.
However, the real shock came when ANI allegedly demanded 45 lakhs (plus GST) to remove the strikes, framing it as a penalty combined with an annual subscription for their footage.
Mohak alleges this is part of ANI’s broader strategy.
He claims other creators have faced similar strikes and paid hefty sums, some as high as 50 lakhs, to save their channels.
ANI’s employee reportedly justified the demands by saying each strike carries a 5-lakh penalty, totaling 40 lakhs for eight alleged violations.
Mohak calls this extortion, comparing it to holding creators’ livelihoods hostage.
He refuses to pay and has escalated the issue to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
Why This Matters For Creators And Viewers
The Mohak Mangal-ANI controversy is not just about one YouTuber.
It is a wake-up call for the digital content ecosystem.
Here is why:
- Threat to Creative Freedom: YouTubers often use short clips under fair use for commentary or education. If agencies like ANI can weaponize copyright strikes, it stifles creativity and free speech.
- Exploitation of Small Creators: Many YouTubers lack the resources to fight legal battles or pay exorbitant fees, making them easy targets for powerful entities.
- Transparency in Media: ANI’s alleged tactics raise questions about the ethics of news agencies profiting through intimidation rather than fair business practices.
This issue affects creators and viewers who rely on platforms like YouTube for independent perspectives.
If channels like Mohak’s are silenced, we lose access to diverse, fact-based content.
How You Can Help Spread Awareness
Mohak has called on his audience to take action, and you can join the movement to support creators and demand accountability.
Here is how:
| Action | How to Do It |
|---|---|
| Share the Story | To reach more people, Share Mohak’s video and this blog post on social media platforms like X, WhatsApp, or Instagram. Use hashtags like #MohakMangal, #ANIExtortion, and #SupportCreators. |
| Unsubscribe from ANI | If you follow ANI on YouTube, X, or other platforms, unsubscribe and block them to send a message. |
| Support Creators | If you’re a creator who’s faced similar issues, collect evidence (emails, call recordings) and send it to the I&B Ministry at [details]. Encourage other creators to speak out. |
| Avoid Personal Attacks | Stay respectful—focus on criticizing ANI’s actions, not targeting employees personally. |
By taking these steps, you can help ensure this issue reaches policymakers and sparks change in how copyright is enforced on platforms like YouTube.
The Bigger Picture: Fair Use And Digital Rights
The concept of fair use allows creators to use small portions of copyrighted material for commentary, education, or criticism.
Mohak argues that using ANI clips for mere seconds in lengthy videos falls under this principle.
However, YouTube’s automated copyright system often sides with claimants, leaving creators vulnerable.
This controversy highlights the need for:
- More straightforward Fair Use Guidelines: Platforms like YouTube must protect creators from misuse of copyright claims.
- Government Oversight: Agencies like ANI, which wield significant influence, should face scrutiny for alleged extortion.
- Creator Solidarity: YouTubers must unite to share experiences and push for fair treatment.
Mohak’s defiance in refusing to pay ANI and risking his channel set a powerful example.
He believes in his ability to rebuild, but not every creator has that confidence or resources.
Conclusion
The Mohak Mangal-ANI controversy sheds light on the dark side of the digital world, where powerful agencies can allegedly exploit creators through copyright strikes.
Mohak’s courage in speaking out and escalating the issue to the government is a call to action for all of us.
By sharing this story, supporting creators, and demanding accountability, we can protect the vibrant YouTube community that informs and entertains us.
Let us stand with Mohak Mangal and other creators to avoid silencing their voices.
Want to learn more about digital rights and creator struggles?
Check out our other articles for insights and updates!
Trivia: Did You Know?
Did you know that YouTube’s copyright strike system was introduced 2007 as part of the Content ID system? It was meant to protect intellectual property, but has often been criticized for being abused by large entities to silence smaller creators. Mohak’s case is a stark reminder of how this system can be exploited.
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