‘Viable solution’

IS Bindra, a member of the IPL’s governing council, tried to ease the growing tension. “We, as cricket administrators, have always regarded the media as a major player and stakeholder in the development of cricket in India. I’m sure all media concerns will be dealt with due promptness and in spirit of mutual respect and confidence,” he told The Indian Express.

“The chairman of the IPL (Lalit Modi) is fully conscious of his responsibilities in this connection. I am sure a viable solution will be found through constructive discussion at the earliest,” he added.

Bindra said the clauses were not intended for newspapers and news agencies. “There is a bit of a misunderstanding here. In no way will newspapers be restricted from posting the pictures on their website. We only want to ensure that private agencies and websites who do not have anything to do with cricket but end up using these photographs for their private commercial gains should not be allowed to do so. Newspapers and magazines can post the pictures on their websites and there is no issue there.”

No changes have been made to the clauses yet.

“In the coming week, Mr Modi will sit with other IPL officials and we’re sure we can come to a solution. As long as the images are circulated for the purpose of news, there should be no problem,” Bindra added.

Despite several attempts, Lalit Modi was unavailable for comment.