Published Paper Details:

The statutory interplay between copyright and design law in India is characterized by rigidity and exclusions that pose challenges for innovation and the accommodation of emerging creative forms. This paper examines the historical development and objectives of these intellectual property regimes, their statutory frameworks, and the practical consequences of their interaction on various stakeholders. The copyright law protects original literary, artistic, musical, and dramatic works, while design law focuses on the visual aesthetics and ornamental aspects of industrial products. However, the rigid formalities, procedural constraints, and inflexible scope of protection often hinder the ability of creators to fully protect their innovations, particularly in industries where the line between artistic expression and functional design is blurred. The overlapping and divergent exclusions in copyright and design laws further complicate their interface, creating legal uncertainties and affecting enforcement efficacy. Comparative analysis with other jurisdictions reveals potential lessons for India in fostering more flexible protection regimes. Policy debates on reforming statutory rigidity and exclusions highlight the need for balanced approaches that safeguard both innovation incentives and public interests. Case studies from the fashion, software, and multimedia industries illustrate the economic and strategic significance of the statutory interplay. The paper concludes with recommendations for future legal harmonization, emphasizing the importance of increased flexibility, clarity in exclusions, and stakeholder inclusiveness in reforming the intellectual property system to align with developmental priorities and international obligations in a rapidly changing innovation landscape.usions Shaped by Statutory Interplay