New Delhi: Popular YouTuber Mohak Mangal, known for his educational and socio-political explainer channel Soch by Mohak, has publicly accused ANI (Asian News International) of pressuring him to buy a subscription in exchange for removing copyright strikes on his videos. In his latest video titled "Dear ANI", Mohak calls the move an act of extortion, raising serious concerns about the abuse of copyright laws by powerful media organizations.
According to Mohak, the copyright strikes were placed on two of his videos that used short clips of ANI footage in what he claims was clearly “fair use” — content used for educational and journalistic purposes. What shocked him more, however, was ANI's alleged response: rather than offering a legal explanation or discussing the matter, ANI reportedly told him that the only way to get the strikes removed was by purchasing a license or subscription to their service.
“No legal notice. No discussion of fair use. Just a demand: buy our subscription or the strikes stay. That’s not copyright protection — that’s extortion,” Mohak said in the video.
The “Pay-to-Play” Problem
Copyright strikes on YouTube are serious — three strikes can result in a channel being permanently deleted. For independent creators like Mohak, who depend on their channel for livelihood and social impact, such threats carry heavy consequences.
Mohak likened the situation to a mafia-style tactic: using fear and power to extract money, not to protect content.
“This wasn’t about protecting intellectual property. It was about money. It was a business transaction disguised as a legal penalty,” he asserted.
Backlash and Support
The video has triggered a wave of online outrage, with creators and viewers rallying behind Mohak. Prominent YouTubers, digital rights activists, and concerned citizens are calling ANI’s actions unethical and dangerous, especially for India's fragile independent media ecosystem.
ANI Yet to Respond
As of this report, ANI has not issued any public statement in response to Mohak’s allegations. Multiple journalists and creators have requested clarity from the agency, but there has been no reply.
A Call for Reform
In his video, Mohak urged YouTube to strengthen protections for fair use and demanded greater transparency in how copyright claims are handled. He also called on the public to support creators who are being threatened by corporate overreach.
“This isn't just about me. It's about the power imbalance between large media houses and small independent voices,” he said.
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