Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Shaafi Naturcure LLP Vs. Assistant Controller of Patents

Brief Legal News Write-Up

Shaafi Naturcure LLP Vs Assistant Controller of Patents and Designs:22.06.2026 : C.A.(COMM.IPD-PAT) 109/2022 : 2026:DHC:5157:Tushar Rao Gedela

The Court considered a dispute concerning the patentability of a herbal powder composition claimed to be useful for the treatment of asthma. The case arose from allegations that the Patent Controller had wrongly refused Patent Application No. 201911048481 titled “A Herbal Powder Composition for the Treatment of Asthma” on the grounds of lack of invention, absence of inventive step, traditional knowledge exclusion, and insufficient disclosure under the Patents Act, 1970.

The principal question before the Court was whether a composition comprising six herbs allegedly capable of treating asthma constituted a patentable invention and whether post-filing evidence could be relied upon to establish inventive step and technical advancement.

After examining the material on record and the submissions of the parties, court observed that all six ingredients forming part of the claimed composition were already known in traditional medicine for treatment of asthma and related respiratory ailments. The Court further found that the applicant's attempt to establish novelty, synergy, efficacy, and treatment of five types of asthma through an affidavit and additional data was unsupported by the original specification and therefore could not be relied upon.

The Court held that post-filing evidence cannot be used to establish a technical effect for the first time and can only confirm an effect already disclosed or embedded in the patent specification. The Court emphasized that a combination of traditionally known ingredients for the same therapeutic purpose, coupled with routine optimization of proportions, falls within the exclusion contained in Section 3(p) of the Patents Act.

Accordingly, the Court dismissed the appeal and upheld the refusal of the patent application, holding that the invention lacked novelty and inventive step, constituted an aggregation of traditional knowledge, and failed to satisfy the disclosure requirements under Sections 10(4)(a) and 10(4)(b) of the Patents Act.

Disclaimer: Readers are advised not treat this as a substitute for legal advise as it is based on limited information and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

Comprehensive Analytical Legal Article

Biological Diversity Act and the Patents Act operate in distinct spheres

Introduction

The decision in Shaafi Naturcure LLP v. Assistant Controller of Patents and Designs is a significant addition to Indian patent jurisprudence dealing with traditional knowledge-based inventions. The judgment addresses important questions regarding the patentability of herbal formulations, the scope of inventive step in traditional medicine, the evidentiary value of post-filing experimental data, and the relationship between the Patents Act, 1970 and the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

The ruling is particularly relevant for innovators, pharmaceutical companies, herbal medicine manufacturers, patent professionals, and researchers seeking patent protection for formulations derived from traditional knowledge. The judgment reinforces the principle that merely combining known traditional ingredients and optimizing their proportions does not automatically qualify for patent protection unless genuine technical advancement and inventive ingenuity are demonstrated.

Factual and Procedural Background

The appellant, Shaafi Naturcure LLP, filed Indian Patent Application No. 201911048481 on 27 November 2019 for an invention titled “A Herbal Powder Composition for the Treatment of Asthma.” The claimed invention related to a herbal formulation comprising six ingredients, namely Tephrosia Purpurea, Cuscuta Reflexa, Morinda Citrifolia, Terminalia Arjuna, Piper Longum, and Piper Nigrum.

Following examination, a First Examination Report was issued on 1 January 2020 raising objections under Sections 2(1)(j), 3(p), 10(4)(a), and 10(4)(b) of the Patents Act, 1970. The applicant submitted a response along with amended claims and subsequently participated in a hearing before the Patent Office.

The Patent Controller eventually rejected the application on 16 September 2020. The Controller concluded that the claimed invention lacked novelty and inventive step, represented an aggregation of traditional knowledge, and failed to sufficiently disclose the invention and its best method of performance.

Aggrieved by the refusal, the appellant preferred an appeal before the Delhi High Court under Section 117A of the Patents Act.

During the appellate proceedings, the appellant relied extensively on an inventor's affidavit and supporting materials claiming that the composition exhibited synergistic effects, treated five categories of asthma, and had been tested on approximately 300 individuals with positive results.

The respondent defended the rejection order and argued that the additional material could not cure deficiencies in the original specification.

Dispute Before the Court

The principal dispute before the Court concerned whether the claimed herbal composition satisfied the requirements of patentability under Indian law.

The appellant contended that the invention involved a unique selection of six herbs from a large pool of medicinal plants traditionally associated with respiratory disorders. According to the appellant, the inventive contribution lay in identifying specific proportions of the ingredients which allegedly produced superior therapeutic results.

The appellant further argued that the invention demonstrated unexpected synergy and that the Patent Controller failed to properly appreciate the inventor's affidavit and supporting data. It was also argued that approval obtained from the National Biodiversity Authority under the Biological Diversity Act supported the patentability of the invention.

The respondent argued that each of the six ingredients was already known in traditional medicine for treatment of asthma or related respiratory conditions. The respondent further contended that the claimed invention merely combined known traditional ingredients and represented routine experimentation rather than genuine innovation.

The respondent also submitted that the affidavit sought to introduce entirely new technical features and claims that were absent from the original specification and therefore could not be considered.

Reasoning and Analysis of the Court

The Court first examined the argument based on the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The appellant argued that once approval had been obtained from the National Biodiversity Authority, the objection under Section 3(p) of the Patents Act should no longer survive.

The Court rejected this contention. It held that the Biological Diversity Act and the Patents Act operate in distinct spheres. The Biological Diversity Act primarily regulates access to biological resources, conservation of biodiversity, and equitable sharing of benefits arising from utilization of biological resources. It does not authorize the National Biodiversity Authority to assess patentability.

The Court observed that approval under the Biological Diversity Act is merely a regulatory requirement and has no bearing on whether an invention satisfies the patentability standards under the Patents Act.

The Court then examined the inventor's affidavit. The affidavit asserted that the invention could cure five categories of asthma and contained extensive data regarding efficacy and side effects. However, the Court found that these claims were absent from the complete specification originally filed before the Patent Office.

The Court noted that the specification did not disclose any classification of asthma into five categories, nor did it contain supporting evidence for such classification. Consequently, these assertions could not be considered during patent examination or appeal.

The Court also found significant inconsistencies between the specification and the affidavit. While the affidavit claimed that altering ingredient ratios could lead to adverse side effects, the original specification contained no such disclosure. More importantly, one formulation disclosed in the affidavit fell within the claimed ranges yet allegedly produced undesirable effects, undermining the applicant's own assertions regarding efficacy and synergy.

The Court relied extensively on AstraZeneca AB & Anr. v. Alkem Laboratories Limited, CS (COMM) 410/2020, decided on 02.11.2020, which in turn referred to Generics (UK) Ltd. v. Yeda Research and Development Company Ltd., (2017) EWHC 2629 (Pat). The Court reiterated the principle that post-filing evidence may only confirm a technical effect already disclosed or reasonably inferable from the specification. Such evidence cannot be used to establish a technical effect for the first time.

Applying this principle, the Court held that the affidavit attempted to introduce new technical effects and supporting data that were not disclosed in the original specification and therefore could not be relied upon.

The Court further scrutinized the examples contained in the specification itself. It found that certain examples demonstrated significant relief from asthma even when only four ingredients were used. This directly contradicted the applicant's claim that the specific six-ingredient combination produced the alleged synergistic effect.

As a result, the Court concluded that the alleged synergy was not established.

The Court also analysed the prior art documents cited by the Patent Office. These references demonstrated that each of the six herbal ingredients had already been traditionally used for asthma, bronchitis, cough, or related respiratory ailments. The Court therefore concluded that the claimed formulation did not demonstrate any meaningful technical advancement over the existing state of knowledge.

The Court then considered Section 3(p) of the Patents Act, which excludes inventions that are essentially traditional knowledge or an aggregation of known properties of traditionally known components.

Particular reliance was placed on the Guidelines for Processing Patent Applications Relating to Traditional Knowledge and Biological Material, 2012. The Court referred to Guiding Principle 2, which treats combinations of plants already known for treatment of the same disease as obvious combinations. The Court also relied on Guiding Principle 4, which states that discovering optimum ranges of traditionally known ingredients through routine experimentation is not inventive.

Applying these principles, the Court held that the invention was essentially a combination of herbs already known for treating asthma and therefore fell squarely within the exclusion under Section 3(p).

The Court further held that the specification failed to fully and particularly describe the invention and failed to disclose the best method of performing it, thereby attracting objections under Sections 10(4)(a) and 10(4)(b).

Final Decision of the Court

The Court dismissed the appeal and upheld the order of the Assistant Controller of Patents and Designs refusing Patent Application No. 201911048481.

The Court concluded that the claimed invention lacked novelty and inventive step under Sections 2(1)(j) and 2(1)(ja) of the Patents Act. It further held that the invention constituted an aggregation of traditionally known ingredients and was therefore barred by Section 3(p).

The Court also held that the complete specification failed to satisfy the disclosure requirements under Sections 10(4)(a) and 10(4)(b).

Consequently, the refusal order was affirmed and the appeal was dismissed without costs.

Point of Law Settled

The judgment reinforces several important principles of Indian patent law.

First, approval obtained under the Biological Diversity Act does not establish patentability and cannot override objections under the Patents Act.

Second, post-filing experimental data may only corroborate a technical effect already disclosed in the patent specification. Such evidence cannot be used to introduce new technical features or establish inventive step for the first time.

Third, combining multiple traditionally known ingredients already recognized for treatment of the same disease is ordinarily regarded as an obvious combination and may fall within the exclusion under Section 3(p).

Fourth, routine optimization of proportions or ranges of known traditional ingredients does not constitute an inventive step unless genuine technical advancement or unexpected results are clearly demonstrated.

Finally, patent specifications must independently disclose the invention, its technical contribution, and the best method of performing it. Deficiencies in disclosure cannot be cured through later affidavits or supplementary evidence.

Title of the Case: Shaafi Naturcure LLP v. Assistant Controller of Patents and Designs

Date of Judgment/Order: 22.06.2026

Case Number: C.A.(COMM.IPD-PAT) 109/2022

Neutral Citation: 2026:DHC:5157

Name of Court:Delhi High Court

Name of Hon'ble Judge:Tushar Rao Gedela

Written By:Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor [Patent and Trademark Attorney], High Court of Delhi

Disclaimer: Images used herein do not reflect actual images used in Judgement and that the same are for illustrative purpose only. Readers are advised not to treat this as substitute for legal advice as it may contain errors in perception, interpretation, and presentation.

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Shaafi Naturcure LLP Patent Appeal Dismissed: Delhi High Court on Section 3(p) Patents Act
Can Herbal Formulations Be Patented? Delhi High Court Clarifies Law on Traditional Knowledge
Post-Filing Evidence Cannot Create Inventive Step: Delhi High Court Patent Ruling Explained
Patentability of Ayurvedic and Herbal Compositions After Shaafi Naturcure Judgment
Delhi High Court on Traditional Knowledge and Patent Protection for Herbal Medicines
Section 3(p) Patents Act Explained Through Shaafi Naturcure LLP Case
Inventive Step in Herbal Formulations: Key Takeaways from Delhi High Court Decision
Biodiversity Approval Does Not Guarantee Patentability, Rules Delhi High Court
Patent Rejection Upheld for Herbal Asthma Treatment Composition: Detailed Legal Analysis

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Headnote of the Judgment

Shaafi Naturcure LLP Vs. Assistant Controller of Patents and Designs, decided by the Delhi High Court in C.A.(COMM.IPD-PAT) 109/2022, concerned an appeal challenging refusal of a patent application relating to a herbal powder composition for treatment of asthma. The Patent Controller had rejected the application under Sections 2(1)(j), 2(1)(ja), 3(p), 10(4)(a) and 10(4)(b) of the Patents Act, 1970. The Court held that the claimed six-herb formulation consisted of ingredients already traditionally known for treatment of asthma and that alleged synergy and technical advancement were not established in the original specification. The Court further ruled that post-filing affidavits and experimental data cannot be used to introduce new technical effects. Holding that the invention amounted to an aggregation of traditional knowledge and lacked inventive step, the Court dismissed the appeal and upheld the patent refusal.

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Monday, June 22, 2026

Devans Modern Breweries Limited Vs Cartel Bros Private Limited

Brief Legal News Write-Up

Devans Modern Breweries Limited Vs. Cartel Bros Private Limited:22.06.2026:CS(COMM) 346/2026:2026:DHC:5156: Tushar Rao Gedela, H.J.

The Court considered a trademark infringement and passing off dispute concerning the use of the mark “GODFATHER” in relation to alcoholic beverages. The case arose from allegations that the defendants proposed to launch whisky products using the mark “GODFATHER” and “GODFATHER’S”, despite the plaintiff being the registered proprietor of the long-standing “GODFATHER” trademark.

The principal question before the Court was whether the defendants’ use of “GODFATHER” as part of their whisky branding infringed the plaintiff’s registered trademark rights and whether beer and whisky could be treated as allied and cognate goods for the purposes of trademark protection.

After examining the material on record and the submissions of the parties, court observed that registration of a trademark confers enforceable statutory rights and that mere allegations of non-use do not deprive a registered proprietor of protection unless the registration is successfully rectified or cancelled. The Court further found that beer and whisky are allied and cognate goods and that the dominant and essential feature of the defendants’ proposed marks remained “GODFATHER”, which was deceptively similar to the plaintiff’s registered trademark.

The Court held that the defendants’ use of “GODFATHER” or “GODFATHER’S” was likely to cause association with the plaintiff and could unfairly exploit the goodwill and reputation acquired by the plaintiff over four decades.

Accordingly, the Court allowed the interim injunction application and restrained the defendants from manufacturing, marketing, selling, advertising, or using the marks “GODFATHER” or “GODFATHER’S” in relation to whisky during the pendency of the suit. The defendants were also directed to remove all online advertisements, listings, and promotional content bearing the impugned marks.

Disclaimer: Readers are advised not treat this as a substitute for legal advise as it is based on limited information and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

Registered Trademark Protection Despite Non-Use

Introduction

Trademark disputes in the alcoholic beverage industry frequently raise complex questions regarding brand identity, consumer perception, reputation, and the extent of protection available to registered trademarks. The decision in Devans Modern Breweries Limited v. Cartel Bros Private Limited & Anr. is significant because it addresses whether a long-established trademark used primarily for beer can prevent another business from using the same mark for whisky.

The judgment examines the scope of trademark protection under the Trade Marks Act, 1999, particularly where competing products fall in different trademark classes but belong to the broader category of alcoholic beverages. The Court also considered important principles relating to non-use of trademarks, allied and cognate goods, likelihood of confusion, dilution of reputation, and the anti-dissection rule applicable to composite marks.

The ruling is particularly relevant for trademark owners, businesses launching new brands, intellectual property practitioners, and companies operating in industries where brand reputation constitutes a valuable commercial asset.

Factual and Procedural Background

Devans Modern Breweries Limited claimed to be one of India's leading manufacturers of alcoholic beverages and asserted long-standing use of the trademark “GODFATHER” since 1984 in relation to beer. The company possessed registrations for the mark in Class 32 for beer and also held registrations in Class 33 covering alcoholic beverages other than beer, including whisky and rum. The plaintiff contended that over several decades of commercial use, advertising, sales promotion, and market presence, the mark “GODFATHER” had acquired substantial goodwill and reputation.

According to the plaintiff, it discovered social media announcements indicating that Cartel Bros Private Limited intended to launch whisky products bearing the mark “GODFATHER”. Further investigation revealed that the defendants had filed trademark applications in Class 33 incorporating the word “GODFATHER”, including applications filed on a proposed-to-be-used basis in early 2026.

The plaintiff instituted a commercial suit for trademark infringement and passing off and simultaneously sought an interim injunction under Order XXXIX Rules 1 and 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.

The defendants resisted the application, contending that they proposed to market whisky under a composite mark that prominently featured “THE GLENWALK” and “BY SANJAY DUTT”, with “GODFATHER’S” appearing only as one component of the overall branding. The defendants also argued that the plaintiff had not substantially used the “GODFATHER” mark in relation to whisky for several years and therefore should not be entitled to exclusive protection in that segment.

Dispute Before the Court

The Court was required to determine whether the plaintiff's trademark registrations remained enforceable despite allegations of limited use in relation to whisky.

The Court also had to decide whether beer and whisky could be regarded as allied and cognate goods even though they are classified separately under trademark law.

Another important question was whether the defendants’ proposed branding, including “THE GLENWALK GODFATHER’S BY SANJAY DUTT”, was sufficiently different from the plaintiff’s mark to avoid infringement and passing off.

The parties also disputed whether the anti-dissection rule prevented the Court from focusing on the word “GODFATHER” in isolation and whether consumers were likely to associate the defendants’ whisky with the plaintiff’s well-known alcoholic beverage brand.

Reasoning and Analysis of the Court

The Court began by examining the statutory framework governing registered trademarks. It referred to Sections 18, 28 and 29 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 and emphasized that registration itself grants enforceable proprietary rights. The Court observed that a registered proprietor can sue for infringement notwithstanding allegations of non-use unless the registration is first removed or rectified in accordance with law. The Court relied upon Gujarat Bottling Co. Ltd. v. Coca Cola Co., (1995) 5 SCC 545, which recognized that statutory trademark rights are not dependent upon continuous use.

The defendants had argued that the plaintiff had not meaningfully used the “GODFATHER” mark for whisky after 2013. The Court, however, noted that the plaintiff had produced invoices and supporting material indicating use of the mark for whisky and rum. While the evidentiary value of those documents would ultimately be tested at trial, the Court found them sufficient at the interim stage to support a prima facie case of use.

A major issue concerned whether beer and whisky were allied and cognate goods. The Court observed that both products are alcoholic beverages, are sold through common trade channels, are available at the same retail outlets, and are regulated under similar excise frameworks. Although differences existed in price, alcohol content, storage requirements, and consumer preferences, those distinctions were not decisive. The Court held that the nature, purpose, and commercial relationship between the products justified treating them as allied and cognate goods.

While reaching this conclusion, the Court referred to several precedents including:

FDC Limited v. Docsuggest Healthcare Services Pvt. Ltd., 2017 SCC OnLine Del 6381;
Raj Kumar Sharma v. Sandeep Kumar, 2023 SCC OnLine Del 492;
Radico Khaitan Ltd. v. Devans Modern Breweries Ltd., 2019 SCC OnLine Del 7483;
Today Tea Ltd. v. Today Foods Pvt. Ltd., 2019 SCC OnLine Del 8345;
Preetendra Singh Aulakh v. Green Light Foods Pvt. Ltd., MANU/DE/2853/2023.

The Court next considered the defendants’ reliance on the anti-dissection rule and the decision of the Supreme Court in Pernod Ricard India Pvt. Ltd. v. Karamveer Singh Chhabra, 2025 SCC OnLine SC 1701. While acknowledging that composite marks must ordinarily be assessed as a whole, the Court held that the dominant and essential feature of the defendants’ branding remained the word “GODFATHER”. The addition of “THE GLENWALK” and “BY SANJAY DUTT” did not sufficiently dilute the prominence of that expression.

The Court also noted that the defendants had earlier sought registration of “THE GODFATHER” and had responded to objections raised by the Trade Marks Registry concerning the plaintiff’s existing registrations. This demonstrated awareness of the plaintiff’s rights and cast doubt on the bona fides of the adoption.

Ultimately, the Court concluded that the plaintiff’s mark had acquired substantial goodwill over four decades and that consumers were likely to associate the defendants’ whisky products with the plaintiff. The Court found that the ingredients of Section 29(4) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 relating to dilution and unfair advantage were prima facie satisfied.

Final Decision of the Court

The Court held that the plaintiff had established a strong prima facie case for grant of interim relief. It found that continued use of “GODFATHER” or “GODFATHER’S” by the defendants was likely to dilute the plaintiff’s trademark and cause consumer association with the plaintiff’s business.

The interim injunction application was allowed. The defendants, their officers, agents, successors, and all persons acting on their behalf were restrained from manufacturing, bottling, marketing, advertising, selling, exporting, or otherwise using the marks “GODFATHER” or “GODFATHER’S” in relation to whisky during the pendency of the suit.

The defendants were also directed to remove all online advertisements, listings, social media posts, and digital content bearing the impugned marks and to initiate take-down requests wherever such content had been published.

Point of Law Settled

The judgment reinforces the principle that a validly registered trademark remains enforceable unless rectified or cancelled in accordance with law, and allegations of non-use alone do not defeat infringement claims at the interim stage.

The decision further clarifies that beer and whisky may constitute allied and cognate goods despite being classified separately, where their nature, trade channels, consumer base, and commercial realities demonstrate a sufficient relationship.

The ruling also reiterates that the anti-dissection rule does not protect a composite mark where the dominant and essential feature is identical or deceptively similar to another party’s registered trademark. Courts may grant injunctive relief where such use is likely to cause confusion, dilution, or unfair exploitation of goodwill.

Title of the Case: Devans Modern Breweries Limited Vs. Cartel Bros Private Limited & Anr.

Date of Judgment/Order: 22.06.2026

Case Number: CS(COMM) 346/2026

Neutral Citation: 2026:DHC:5156

Name of Court: High Court of Delhi

Name of Hon'ble Judge: Justice Tushar Rao Gedela

Written By:Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor [Patent and Trademark Attorney], High Court of Delhi

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GODFATHER Trademark Case: Delhi High Court Grants Injunction Against Whisky Brand
Can Beer and Whisky Be Allied Goods? Delhi High Court Explains in GODFATHER Case
Devans Modern Breweries Wins Interim Injunction in GODFATHER Trademark Litigation
Delhi High Court on Trademark Dilution and Composite Marks: GODFATHER Judgment Analysed
GODFATHER vs Glenwalk Godfather’s: Detailed Analysis of Delhi High Court Decision
Registered Trademark Protection Despite Non-Use: Delhi High Court Clarifies Law
Section 29 Trade Marks Act Explained Through GODFATHER Trademark Dispute
Trademark Infringement in Alcohol Industry: Key Takeaways from Devans Modern Breweries Case
Delhi High Court Reaffirms Protection of Well-Known Alcohol Brand Trademarks

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Headnote of the Judgment

Devans Modern Breweries Limited Vs Cartel Bros Private Limited & Anr., High Court of Delhi, CS(COMM) 346/2026. The plaintiff sought an interim injunction restraining the defendants from using “GODFATHER” and “GODFATHER’S” for whisky products, alleging trademark infringement and passing off. The Court held that registration of a trademark confers enforceable statutory rights even where non-use is alleged unless the registration is validly rectified. It further held that beer and whisky are allied and cognate goods and that “GODFATHER” constituted the dominant feature of the defendants’ proposed branding. Finding a prima facie case of infringement, likelihood of confusion, dilution of goodwill, and unfair advantage, the Court allowed the interim injunction application and restrained the defendants from using the impugned marks pending disposal of the suit.

Infographic Thumbnail Prompt

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Novamax Industries Vs. Prem Appliances

Brief Legal News Write-Up

Novamax Industries LLP Vs. Prem Appliances & Anr.19.06.2026 : CS(COMM) 177/2021 : 2026:DHC:5149 : Justice Tushar Rao Gedela

The Court considered a dispute concerning alleged infringement of a registered design and passing off in relation to air coolers. The case arose from allegations that the defendants were manufacturing and selling air coolers bearing a design that was an identical or fraudulent imitation of the plaintiff’s registered design and were also passing off their goods as those of the plaintiff.

The principal question before the Court was whether the plaintiff’s design infringement claim could survive when evidence on record indicated prior publication of the design before its registration and whether the passing off claim could nevertheless continue independently.

After examining the material on record and the submissions of the parties, Justice Tushar Rao Gedela observed that the plaintiff’s own documents demonstrated publication of the design prior to registration, thereby attracting the grounds for cancellation under Section 19 of the Designs Act, 2000. The Court held that the infringement claim had no real prospect of success because prior publication destroyed the enforceability of the registered design. The Court further emphasized that a passing off action is an independent common law remedy and can survive even if a design infringement claim fails.

Accordingly, the Court partly allowed the application by dismissing the suit insofar as it related to design infringement, while permitting the passing off claim to proceed to trial.

Disclaimer: Readers are advised not treat this as a substitute for legal advise as it is based on limited information and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

Novamax Industries LLP v. Prem Appliances & Anr.

Introduction

The decision of the Delhi High Court in Novamax Industries LLP v. Prem Appliances & Anr. is an important judgment examining the relationship between design infringement and passing off claims. The case highlights the consequences of prior publication of a registered design and clarifies whether a plaintiff can continue a passing off action even after the design infringement claim becomes unsustainable.

The judgment is significant for manufacturers, designers, intellectual property owners, and businesses engaged in product-based industries. It reinforces the importance of maintaining novelty before seeking design registration while simultaneously recognizing that common law rights relating to goodwill and reputation may survive independently of statutory design protection.

Factual and Procedural Background

The plaintiff instituted a commercial suit alleging infringement of several registered designs relating to air coolers. The plaintiff claimed proprietary rights over various registered designs and asserted that it enjoyed exclusive rights in the shape, configuration, and visual appearance of its products. The plaintiff further alleged that the defendants had copied one of its registered cooler designs and were marketing substantially similar products.

According to the plaint, the defendants were not only using a design identical or deceptively similar to the plaintiff’s registered design but were also employing branding elements that allegedly enabled them to ride upon the goodwill and reputation associated with the plaintiff's products. The plaintiff therefore sought relief for both design infringement and passing off.

The defendants challenged the maintainability of the suit through an application seeking summary judgment under Order XIII-A of the Code of Civil Procedure. They argued that the plaintiff's own documents demonstrated prior publication of the design before registration, rendering the design vulnerable under Section 19 of the Designs Act, 2000. They further contended that the plaint lacked the necessary ingredients to sustain a passing off action.

The Court was therefore required to examine whether either or both claims could survive.

Dispute Before the Court

The principal dispute concerned whether the plaintiff could maintain an action for infringement of a registered design when evidence indicated that the design had been published prior to registration.

A second issue arose regarding the passing off claim. The defendants argued that the plaint failed to plead essential ingredients necessary to constitute a valid cause of action for passing off and therefore deserved dismissal at the threshold.

The plaintiff, on the other hand, contended that the defendants had copied the design and were attempting to misrepresent their products as those of the plaintiff. It was argued that even if issues arose concerning design registration, the passing off claim remained independently maintainable and required adjudication through evidence at trial.

Reasoning and Analysis of the Court

The Court first examined the statutory framework governing cancellation of designs under Section 19 of the Designs Act, 2000. Section 19 permits cancellation of a registered design where it has been published in India or elsewhere prior to registration, where it is not new or original, or where it otherwise fails to satisfy statutory requirements.

Upon examining the record, the Court noted that the plaintiff’s own documents disclosed invoices predating the design application as well as publication of the relevant cooler design on the plaintiff’s website before registration. The Court found that these facts constituted prior publication within the meaning of Section 19. As a result, the Court concluded that the plaintiff's infringement claim had no real prospect of success.

The Court therefore held that the suit insofar as it related to infringement of the registered design could not continue and deserved dismissal under the summary judgment provisions.

The Court then turned to the more significant question regarding passing off. It carefully examined the pleadings and observed that the plaintiff had specifically alleged imitation, deception, diversion of trade, and misappropriation of goodwill. The Court found that these averments were sufficient to constitute a cause of action for passing off at the pleading stage.

While addressing the legal position, the Court extensively relied upon the Full Bench decision in Carlsberg Breweries A/S v. Som Distilleries and Breweries Ltd. and the Division Bench decision in Crocs Inc. USA v. Liberty Shoes Ltd.. These decisions recognized that a composite suit combining design infringement and passing off claims is maintainable and that passing off survives independently of statutory design rights.

The Court further referred to Birhan Karan Sugar Syndicate (P) Ltd. v. Yashwantrao Mohite Krushna Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana, (2024) 2 SCC 577, Satyam Infoway Ltd. v. Siffynet Solutions (P) Ltd., (2004) 6 SCC 145, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha v. Prius Auto Industries Ltd., (2018) 2 SCC 1, and Kaviraj Pandit Durga Dutt Sharma v. Navaratna Pharmaceuticals Laboratories, AIR 1965 SC 980. These authorities were discussed to explain the distinction between infringement actions and passing off actions and the requirement of proving goodwill, misrepresentation, and likelihood of damage in passing off cases.

The Court emphasized that passing off is a valuable common law remedy preserved by Section 27(2) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 and that its availability cannot be denied merely because the dispute also involves a registered design. Whether the plaintiff ultimately succeeds on passing off would depend upon evidence, but the claim could not be summarily rejected at this stage.

Final Decision of the Court

The Delhi High Court partly allowed the defendants’ application for summary judgment.

The Court dismissed the plaintiff’s claim for design infringement after concluding that prior publication deprived the plaintiff of any realistic prospect of success on that issue. However, the Court rejected the defendants’ challenge to the passing off claim and held that the same required adjudication through evidence during trial. The suit was therefore permitted to continue solely in respect of the passing off cause of action.

Point of Law Settled

The judgment clarifies that prior publication of a design before registration can defeat a design infringement action and may justify dismissal of such a claim at the summary judgment stage. At the same time, the decision reaffirms that passing off is an independent common law remedy based on goodwill, misrepresentation, and likelihood of damage. Even where statutory design rights become unenforceable, a passing off action can continue on the same factual matrix if the pleadings disclose a viable cause of action. The ruling strengthens the distinction between statutory design protection and common law protection of business goodwill.

Case Details

Title of the Case: Novamax Industries LLP v. Prem Appliances & Anr.

Date of Judgment/Order: 19.06.2026

Case Number: CS(COMM) 177/2021

Neutral Citation: 2026:DHC:5149

Name of Court: High Court of Delhi

Name of Hon'ble Judge: Justice Tushar Rao Gedela

Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor [Patent and Trademark Attorney], High Court of Delhi

Suggested SEO Titles

Delhi High Court Clarifies Difference Between Design Infringement and Passing Off Claims
Prior Publication Defeats Design Infringement Suit: Delhi High Court Ruling Explained
Novamax Industries v Prem Appliances: Landmark Decision on Design Rights and Passing Off
Can a Passing Off Claim Survive Failure of a Design Infringement Action?
Delhi High Court Applies Section 19 of Designs Act in Air Cooler Design Dispute
Prior Publication and Design Registration: Important Delhi High Court Judgment
Composite Design Infringement and Passing Off Suits Explained Through Novamax Case
Passing Off Action Allowed Despite Failure of Design Infringement Claim
Delhi High Court on Summary Judgment in Intellectual Property Litigation
Key Takeaways from Novamax Industries LLP v Prem Appliances & Anr.

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Headnote of the Judgment

Novamax Industries LLP v. Prem Appliances & Anr., High Court of Delhi, CS(COMM) 177/2021, decided on 19.06.2026, Neutral Citation: 2026:DHC:5149. The defendants sought summary dismissal of a suit alleging infringement of a registered air-cooler design and passing off. The Court found that the plaintiff’s own documents established prior publication of the design before registration, thereby attracting Section 19 of the Designs Act, 2000 and defeating the infringement claim. Consequently, the design infringement portion of the suit was dismissed. However, relying on the principles governing passing off and composite intellectual property actions, the Court held that the passing off claim disclosed a triable cause of action and could not be rejected summarily. The application was therefore partly allowed and the suit was permitted to continue solely on the passing off claim.

Infographic Thumbnail Prompt (14:9 Aspect Ratio)

Create a premium 14:9 ultra-realistic 3D legal intellectual property infographic depicting a major industrial design and passing off dispute involving air coolers. At the center, display a large registered design certificate for a modern air cooler being torn into two sections. One side should feature a glowing red stamp reading “PRIOR PUBLICATION” and “DESIGN CLAIM DISMISSED”, symbolizing invalidation of the design infringement claim. The other side should feature a golden shield labeled “PASSING OFF CLAIM SURVIVES” protecting business goodwill and brand reputation. Include highly detailed 3D air coolers with identical shapes and configurations facing each other, digital product catalogs, website publication screenshots, intellectual property files, design registration documents, legal scales, courtroom records, and commercial market imagery. Prominently display text elements: “Design Infringement Rejected”, “Passing Off Continues”, “Section 19 Designs Act”, “Prior Publication”, and “Goodwill & Reputation Protected”. Use cinematic lighting, photorealistic textures, reflective metallic surfaces, premium blue-gold legal theme, dramatic depth of field, high-detail corporate legal aesthetics, and publication-quality composition suitable for a leading legal news platform. Use attached image as Image of lawyer in lawyers dress at left bottom corner which should cover 20 % of entire image area.

Laboratoires Griffon Vs. Psychotropics India

Brief Legal News Write-Up

Laboratoires Griffon Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. Vs. Psychotropics India Limited:17.06.2026 : Commercial IP Suit (L) No. 256 of 2022 :2026:BHC-OS:13292 Hon'ble Judge: Justice Arif S. Doctor

The Court considered a dispute concerning alleged trademark infringement and passing off in relation to pharmaceutical products marketed under the trademarks “GRILINCTUS” and “PIL-LINCTUS”. The case arose from allegations that the defendant adopted and used the mark “PIL-LINCTUS” for medicinal products, which was deceptively similar to the plaintiffs’ long-standing registered trademark “GRILINCTUS”.

The principal question before the Court was whether the defendant’s use of “PIL-LINCTUS” was deceptively similar to the plaintiffs’ registered trademark “GRILINCTUS” and likely to cause confusion in the pharmaceutical market.

After examining the material on record and the submissions of the parties, Justice Arif S. Doctor observed that the rival marks were phonetically, structurally, and visually similar and that a stricter standard must be applied in cases involving medicinal products because confusion may have serious consequences. The Court held that the plaintiffs had established prior registration, long-standing use, goodwill, and a strong prima facie case of infringement and passing off. The Court emphasized that even the possibility of confusion between medicinal products should be avoided.

Accordingly, the Court allowed the interim application and granted interim relief restraining the defendant from using the impugned mark “PIL-LINCTUS” in relation to pharmaceutical products pending disposal of the suit.

Disclaimer: Readers are advised not treat this as a substitute for legal advise as it is based on limited information and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

Laboratoires Griffon Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. v. Psychotropics India Limited

Introduction

Trademark disputes involving pharmaceutical products occupy a special place in intellectual property law because confusion between medicines can have consequences far beyond commercial loss. The decision in Laboratoires Griffon Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. v. Psychotropics India Limited reiterates the judicial approach that greater caution is required when assessing deceptively similar pharmaceutical trademarks.

The judgment is significant because it addresses the interplay between descriptive elements in a trademark, the overall similarity of competing marks, and the heightened public interest considerations applicable to medicinal products. The ruling serves as an important reminder that pharmaceutical companies must exercise greater care while selecting trademarks to ensure that consumers, pharmacists, and medical practitioners are not misled.

Factual and Procedural Background

The plaintiffs are proprietors of the trademark “GRILINCTUS,” which has been registered and used in relation to pharmaceutical products for several decades. The plaintiffs asserted that they had continuously used the trademark since the early 1970s and had built substantial goodwill and reputation in the market. They also relied upon historical invoices, promotional material, sales figures, and evidence of enforcement actions against third parties using similar marks.

The dispute arose when the plaintiffs became aware of the defendant's use of the mark “PIL-LINCTUS” for pharmaceutical products. According to the plaintiffs, the impugned mark was deceptively similar to their registered trademark and was likely to cause confusion among consumers and members of the trade.

The defendant resisted the claim by asserting that “PIL” was derived from its corporate name, Psychotropics India Limited, and that “LINCTUS” was a descriptive term commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry for cough syrup preparations. The defendant further contended that numerous trademark registrations containing the word “LINCTUS” existed and that the plaintiffs could not claim a monopoly over the expression.

An Interim Application seeking injunctive relief was filed by the plaintiffs pending adjudication of the suit.

Dispute Before the Court

The principal issue before the Court was whether the trademark “PIL-LINCTUS” was deceptively similar to the registered trademark “GRILINCTUS”.

The plaintiffs argued that the rival marks were phonetically, visually, and structurally similar and that confusion was likely, particularly because both marks were used in relation to pharmaceutical products. The plaintiffs further contended that the defendant was attempting to come as close as possible to their established trademark.

The defendant argued that “LINCTUS” was descriptive and common to the trade, that the prefixes “GRI” and “PIL” were entirely different, and that the use of a hyphen created sufficient distinction between the marks. The defendant also relied upon alleged delay, acquiescence, and the existence of several third-party registrations incorporating the word “LINCTUS”.

Reasoning and Analysis of the Court

The Court commenced its analysis by reiterating the settled principle that trademarks must be compared as a whole rather than by dissecting them into separate components. The proper test is the overall impression created in the mind of a person of average intelligence and imperfect recollection.

The Court relied upon the principles laid down in Amritdhara Pharmacy v. Satya Deo Gupta, AIR 1963 SC 449 and Hiralal Parbhudas v. Ganesh Trading Co., emphasizing that deceptive similarity must be assessed from the standpoint of an ordinary consumer rather than through a meticulous side-by-side comparison.

Particular emphasis was placed upon the Supreme Court's landmark decision in Cadila Health Care Ltd. v. Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd., (2001) 5 SCC 73, wherein the Court observed that confusion between medicinal products may have life-threatening consequences. The judgment quoted the well-known observation that “drugs are poisons, not sweets,” thereby requiring a stricter standard when evaluating pharmaceutical trademarks.

Applying these principles, the Court found that “GRILINCTUS” and “PIL-LINCTUS” were phonetically, structurally, and visually similar. The Court observed that the suffix “LINCTUS” dominated the overall impression of both marks and that the prefixes “GRI” and “PIL” did not sufficiently distinguish them. The mere presence of a hyphen was considered inadequate to eliminate the possibility of confusion.

The Court distinguished F. Hoffmann-La Roche & Co. Ltd. v. Geoffrey Manners & Co. Pvt. Ltd., where the rival marks were found sufficiently distinguishable because their prefixes created different overall commercial impressions. In contrast, the Court held that the common suffix “LINCTUS” overwhelmingly dominated the competing marks in the present case.

The Court also referred to UltraTech Cement Ltd. v. Alaknanda Cement Pvt. Ltd., accepting the contention that a party seeking registration of a mark cannot simultaneously contend that an essential component of that mark is wholly descriptive and incapable of trademark significance.

On the issue of delay and acquiescence, the Court considered Willmott v. Barber, Power Control Appliances v. Sumeet Machines Pvt. Ltd., (1994) 2 SCC 448, and Kamath Hotels (India) Ltd. v. Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., holding that mere delay does not defeat a claim where a strong case of infringement exists. Acquiescence requires proof of active encouragement or consent, which was absent in the present case.

The Court further relied upon Corn Products Refining Co. v. Shangrila Food Products Ltd. and National Bell Co. v. Metal Goods Manufacturing Co. Pvt. Ltd. while rejecting the defendant’s reliance on third-party registrations. The Court observed that mere production of registry entries is insufficient without proof of actual market use.

Ultimately, the Court concluded that the plaintiffs had established prior registration, continuous use, substantial goodwill, and a strong prima facie case of infringement and passing off. The balance of convenience was found to be in favour of the plaintiffs.

Final Decision of the Court

The Court allowed the Interim Application and granted interim relief in favour of the plaintiffs. It restrained the defendant from using the impugned trademark “PIL-LINCTUS” in relation to pharmaceutical products during the pendency of the suit. No order as to costs was passed. The Court also recorded a statement that the order would not be acted upon for a period of four weeks.

Point of Law Settled

The judgment reinforces that pharmaceutical trademarks are subject to a stricter standard of scrutiny because public health considerations demand avoidance of even a possibility of confusion. It clarifies that a trademark must be assessed as a whole and that descriptive arguments cannot automatically defeat an infringement claim where the overall impression created by the competing marks is deceptively similar. The decision also reiterates that delay alone is not a defence to infringement and that third-party registrations, without proof of actual market use, do not establish that a term has become common to trade.

Case Details:

Title of the Case: Laboratoires Griffon Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. v. Psychotropics India Limited

Date of Judgment/Order: 17.06.2026

Case Number: Interim Application No. 4006 of 2022 in Commercial IP Suit (L) No. 3999 of 2022

Neutral Citation: Not Available

Name of Court: High Court of Judicature at Bombay

Name of Hon'ble Judge: Justice Arif S. Doctor

Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor [Patent and Trademark Attorney], High Court of Delhi

Suggested SEO Titles

Bombay High Court Grants Injunction Against PIL-LINCTUS Trademark
GRILINCTUS vs PIL-LINCTUS: Pharmaceutical Trademark Dispute Explained
Bombay High Court on Deceptive Similarity in Pharmaceutical Trademarks
Pharmaceutical Trademark Infringement: Analysis of the GRILINCTUS Judgment
Can Descriptive Elements Defeat a Trademark Claim? Bombay High Court Answers
Interim Injunction Granted in GRILINCTUS Trademark Litigation
Trademark Protection for Medicines: Key Takeaways from Recent Bombay High Court Ruling
Cadila Principles Reaffirmed in Pharmaceutical Trademark Dispute
PIL-LINCTUS Restrained: Important Intellectual Property Judgment of 2026
Pharmaceutical Brand Protection and Deceptive Similarity under Trademark Law

Suggested SEO Tags

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Headnote of the Judgment

Laboratoires Griffon Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. v. Psychotropics India Limited, High Court of Judicature at Bombay, Interim Application No. 4006 of 2022 in Commercial IP Suit (L) No. 3999 of 2022, decided on 17.06.2026. The plaintiffs sought an interim injunction restraining the defendant from using the trademark “PIL-LINCTUS” for pharmaceutical products, alleging infringement and passing off of their registered trademark “GRILINCTUS.” Applying the principles governing deceptive similarity in pharmaceutical trademarks and relying upon the stricter standard laid down in Cadila Healthcare Ltd., the Court held that the rival marks were phonetically, visually, and structurally similar and likely to cause confusion. The Court found a strong prima facie case in favour of the plaintiffs and allowed the interim application, restraining use of the impugned mark pending disposal of the suit.

Infographic Thumbnail Prompt (14:9 Aspect Ratio)

Create a premium 14:9 ultra-realistic 3D legal-pharmaceutical infographic depicting a major trademark infringement dispute involving two competing cough syrup brands. At the center, display two large medicine bottles labeled “GRILINCTUS” and “PIL-LINCTUS” facing each other with a glowing red warning symbol showing trademark conflict and consumer confusion. Show a giant metallic legal scale balancing intellectual property rights against pharmaceutical safety concerns. Include pharmaceutical packaging, prescription sheets, medicine boxes, capsules, trademark registration certificates, legal files, courtroom documents, digital trademark databases, and glowing comparison graphics highlighting phonetic and visual similarity between the competing marks. Add a prominent red injunction stamp reading “USE RESTRICTED” and large text banners stating “Pharmaceutical Trademark Dispute”, “Deceptive Similarity”, “Interim Injunction Granted”, and “Consumer Safety First”. Use cinematic lighting, ultra-realistic textures, reflective surfaces, premium legal-business aesthetics, dramatic depth of field, high-detail 3D rendering, blue-gold corporate color scheme, and publication-quality composition suitable for a leading legal news portal. Use attached image as Image of lawyer in lawyers dress at left bottom corner which should cover 20 % of entire image area.

Honasa Consumer Ltd. Vs. Visage Beauty and Health Care

Brief Legal News Write-Up

Honasa Consumer Ltd. Vs. Visage Beauty and Health Care Pvt. Ltd.19.06.2026: C.O. (COMM.IPD-TM) 215/2023: 2026:DHC:5148 : Hon'ble Judge: Justice Tushar Rao Gedela

The Court considered a dispute concerning the validity of the registered trademark “D-TAN” in relation to cosmetic and skincare products. The case arose from allegations that Visage Beauty and Health Care Pvt. Ltd., proprietor of the registered mark “D-TAN”, issued a cease-and-desist notice to Honasa Consumer Ltd. objecting to the latter’s use of the expression “DETAN” in connection with its skincare products.

The principal question before the Court was whether the registered trademark “D-TAN” was a descriptive and non-distinctive expression incapable of exclusive trademark protection and therefore liable to be removed from the Register of Trade Marks.

After examining the material on record and the submissions of the parties, Justice Tushar Rao Gedela observed that the expression “D-TAN” directly described the intended purpose and function of skincare products, namely the removal of tanning from the skin. The Court found that the mark was descriptive, common to trade, lacked inherent distinctiveness, and that the respondent had failed to establish that it had acquired secondary significance sufficient to justify continued registration.

The Court held that descriptive expressions which designate the nature, quality, or intended purpose of goods cannot ordinarily enjoy exclusive trademark protection. The Court emphasized that widespread industry use of the expressions “D-TAN” and “DETAN” demonstrated their descriptive character rather than source-identifying significance.

Accordingly, the Court allowed the rectification petition and directed the Registrar of Trade Marks to cancel and remove the registration of the trademark “D-TAN” bearing Registration No. 2065580 in Class 3 from the Register of Trade Marks.

Disclaimer: Readers are advised not treat this as a substitute for legal advise as it is based on limited information and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

Honasa Consumer Ltd. v. Visage Beauty and Health Care Pvt. Ltd. & Anr.

Introduction

The Delhi High Court's decision in Honasa Consumer Ltd. v. Visage Beauty and Health Care Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. is a significant addition to Indian trademark jurisprudence dealing with descriptive trademarks and rectification proceedings. The judgment examines whether a term commonly used in the cosmetics and skincare industry to describe the purpose of a product can be monopolized through trademark registration.

The case is particularly relevant for businesses operating in highly competitive consumer markets where product descriptions often overlap. It highlights the distinction between a trademark that identifies the source of goods and a descriptive expression that merely explains the characteristics or intended use of a product. The ruling serves as an important reminder that trademark law protects brand identifiers, not ordinary descriptive language that competitors may legitimately need to use in trade.

Factual and Procedural Background

Visage Beauty and Health Care Pvt. Ltd. applied for registration of the trademark “D-TAN” in Class 3 for cosmetic products on 9 December 2010, claiming use since 1 December 2009. During examination, the Trade Marks Registry raised objections under Sections 9(1)(a) and 9(1)(b) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 on the ground that the mark lacked distinctiveness and appeared descriptive in nature. Despite these objections, the mark was eventually advertised and subsequently registered on 30 January 2018.

Honasa Consumer Ltd., a well-known consumer products company, launched skincare products under its “AQUALOGICA” brand. In 2023, Visage issued a cease-and-desist notice alleging infringement of its registered trademark “D-TAN” by Honasa’s use of the expression “DETAN” in connection with certain skincare products.

Honasa responded by asserting that “DETAN” was a descriptive term widely used in the skincare industry to indicate products intended to remove tanning from the skin. According to Honasa, the term was generic, lacked distinctiveness, and could not be exclusively appropriated by any single trader.

Following the exchange of notices, Honasa filed a rectification petition under Section 57 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 seeking cancellation of the registration of the trademark “D-TAN” from the Register of Trade Marks.

Dispute Before the Court

The principal dispute before the Court was whether the registered trademark “D-TAN” was capable of trademark protection under the Trade Marks Act, 1999.

Honasa contended that the expression directly described the purpose and intended result of skincare products designed to remove tanning. It argued that the mark was descriptive, common to trade, and incapable of distinguishing the goods of one trader from another.

Visage, on the other hand, argued that “D-TAN” was a coined expression adopted in 2009 and extensively used for over fifteen years. It claimed substantial sales, widespread recognition, significant advertising expenditure, and asserted that the mark had acquired distinctiveness and secondary meaning through long and continuous use.

The Court was therefore required to determine whether the mark was descriptive or distinctive and whether any acquired distinctiveness justified its continued registration.

Reasoning and Analysis of the Court

The Court undertook a detailed examination of the statutory scheme contained in Sections 9, 12 and 57 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.

The Court first reviewed the examination history of the trademark application and noted that the Trade Marks Registry had originally objected to the registration under Sections 9(1)(a) and 9(1)(b). These provisions prohibit registration of marks that are devoid of distinctive character or consist exclusively of indications describing the characteristics, quality, intended purpose or other attributes of goods.

Upon examining the record, the Court found that the responses filed by the proprietor did not adequately overcome the objections regarding lack of distinctiveness and descriptiveness. The Court observed that there was no satisfactory explanation demonstrating why the mark deserved registration despite the statutory objections.

The Court then examined the linguistic meaning of the expression “D-TAN”. Referring to dictionary definitions, it noted that the prefix “de” ordinarily denotes removal or reversal, while “tan” refers to the tanning of skin caused by exposure to sunlight. When combined, the expression naturally conveyed the idea of removing or reversing tanning.

According to the Court, an average consumer would immediately understand “D-TAN” as describing the function or intended purpose of the product rather than identifying its commercial source. No imagination or mental process was required to understand the meaning of the expression.

The Court also relied upon industry practice and evidence demonstrating widespread use of the expressions “D-TAN” and “DETAN” by numerous skincare manufacturers. Such widespread use indicated that the expression had become a descriptive term within the trade.

While discussing principles relating to descriptive trademarks, the Court referred to the well-known treatise McCarthy on Trademarks and Unfair Competition. The Court noted that a mark is descriptive when it directly conveys information about the intended purpose, function, quality, characteristics, or effect of a product. The treatise further recognizes that extensive third-party use of a term is a strong indicator of descriptiveness.

The Court also referred to its recent decision in Renee Cosmetics Private Limited v. Rupali Sharma & Anr., C.O. (COMM.IPD-TM) 107/2025, decided on 05.06.2026, while examining the principles governing descriptive marks.

A significant aspect of the judgment was the Court's analysis of acquired distinctiveness and secondary meaning. Although Visage produced evidence of substantial sales figures and promotional expenditure, the Court held that commercial success alone does not automatically establish secondary meaning. To establish acquired distinctiveness, a proprietor must demonstrate that consumers associate the mark exclusively with its goods and no one else's.

The Court found that the respondent had not produced sufficient evidence such as consumer surveys, market recognition studies, or other material demonstrating that the public exclusively associated the expression “D-TAN” with its products.

Another important factor considered by the Court was the respondent's own manner of usage. The Court observed that the respondent prominently displayed its house mark “Professional O3+” on product packaging, while “D-TAN” appeared more as a description of the product's function. This supported the conclusion that even the proprietor itself used the expression descriptively rather than as a primary source identifier.

The Court further held that Honasa qualified as an “aggrieved person” under Section 57 because the cease-and-desist notice sought to prevent it from using a descriptive expression that was legitimately required in trade. Reliance was placed upon the Supreme Court's decision in Hardie Trading Ltd. v. Addisons Paint & Chemicals Ltd., (2003) 11 SCC 92 regarding the meaning of an aggrieved person in rectification proceedings.

Having considered the evidence and statutory framework, the Court concluded that the mark was descriptive, common to trade, lacked distinctiveness, and had not acquired secondary significance sufficient to justify continued registration.

Final Decision of the Court

The Delhi High Court allowed the rectification petition filed by Honasa Consumer Ltd.

The Court directed the Registrar of Trade Marks to cancel the registration of the trademark “D-TAN” bearing Application No. 2065580 in Class 3. The Registrar was further directed to remove the trademark from the Register of Trade Marks within four weeks from receipt of the order.

Point of Law Settled

The judgment reaffirms that descriptive expressions indicating the nature, purpose, quality, function, or intended result of goods cannot ordinarily enjoy exclusive trademark protection.

The Court clarified that commercial success and high sales figures alone are insufficient to establish acquired distinctiveness. A proprietor seeking protection for a descriptive mark must produce convincing evidence that consumers identify the mark exclusively with its goods.

The decision also underscores that widespread industry use of a term is a strong indicator that the expression is descriptive and common to trade. Such terms must remain available for use by all market participants and cannot be monopolized through trademark registration.

Case Details:

Title of the Case: Honasa Consumer Ltd. v. Visage Beauty and Health Care Pvt. Ltd. & Anr.

Date of Judgment/Order: 19.06.2026

Case Number: C.O. (COMM.IPD-TM) 215/2023

Neutral Citation: 2026:DHC:5148

Name of Court: High Court of Delhi

Name of Hon'ble Judge: Justice Tushar Rao Gedela

Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor [Patent and Trademark Attorney], High Court of Delhi

Suggested SEO Titles:

Delhi High Court Cancels D-TAN Trademark Registration in Landmark Descriptive Mark Ruling
Honasa Consumer Wins Trademark Rectification Case Against D-TAN Registration
Can Descriptive Terms Be Registered as Trademarks? Delhi High Court Answers
Delhi High Court Removes D-TAN Trademark from Register of Trade Marks
D-TAN Held Descriptive and Common to Trade: Important Trademark Judgment
Honasa Consumer v. Visage Beauty: Key Takeaways on Descriptive Trademarks
Acquired Distinctiveness and Descriptive Marks: Delhi High Court Clarifies Law
Trademark Rectification under Section 57: Analysis of the D-TAN Judgment
Delhi High Court on Secondary Meaning and Descriptive Trademark Protection
Cosmetics Industry Trademark Dispute Ends with Cancellation of D-TAN Registration

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Headnote of the Judgment:

Honasa Consumer Ltd. v. Visage Beauty and Health Care Pvt. Ltd. & Anr., High Court of Delhi, C.O. (COMM.IPD-TM) 215/2023, decided on 19.06.2026. The petitioner filed a rectification petition under Section 57 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 seeking cancellation of the registered trademark “D-TAN” in Class 3. The Court examined whether the mark was descriptive, non-distinctive, and common to trade. Holding that “D-TAN” directly described the intended purpose of skincare products used for removal of tanning and that the respondent failed to establish acquired distinctiveness or secondary meaning, the Court concluded that the mark was wrongly remaining on the Register of Trade Marks. The petition was allowed and the Registrar of Trade Marks was directed to cancel and remove the registration of the trademark “D-TAN”.

Infographic Thumbnail Prompt (14:9 Aspect Ratio)

Create a premium 14:9 ultra-realistic 3D legal-business infographic depicting a major trademark cancellation dispute in the cosmetics and skincare industry. At the center, show a large glossy trademark certificate bearing the term “D-TAN” being removed from a digital trademark register with dramatic visual effects. One side should depict luxury skincare and cosmetic products labeled generically as “Detan Products,” sun-exposed skin transformation graphics, beauty cream jars, skincare tubes, and cosmetic branding elements. The opposite side should depict trademark law concepts including legal scales, intellectual property documents, registration records, courtroom files, legal books, digital evidence screens, and trademark registry databases. Show a glowing red “D-TAN IN RELATION TO COSMETICS, DESCRIPTIVE MARK” stamp and a large metallic “REGISTRATION CANCELLED” seal hovering over the trademark certificate. Include visual cues demonstrating widespread industry use of similar skincare terminology by multiple competing cosmetic brands. Use cinematic lighting, reflective surfaces, realistic textures, depth of field, premium corporate design aesthetics, gold and blue color palette, dramatic legal atmosphere, high-detail 3D rendering, photorealistic quality, and publication-grade composition suitable for legal news media. Include prominent text elements: “D-TAN Trademark Cancelled”, “Descriptive Mark”, “Common to Trade”, “Trademark Rectification Allowed”, and “Section 57 Trade Marks Act”. Use attached image as Image of lawyer in lawyers dress at left bottom corner which should cover 20 % of entire image area.

Thursday, June 18, 2026

Raman Kwatra Vs. The Registrar of Trade Marks

Below is a complete, publication-ready legal news brief followed by a comprehensive analytical legal article, strictly in the exact format, tone, and structural instructions provided by you, based on the judgment Raman Kwatra v. The Registrar of Trade Marks, decided on 15 June 2026.

Brief Legal News Write-Up

Raman Kwatra Vs. The Registrar of Trade Marks & Anr.:15.06.2026 : IAL-23211-2025 in Com Misc Pet (L) No. 36812 of 2024 : 2026:BHC-OS:13306: BombHC:Hon'ble Judge: Justice Arif S. Doctor

The Court considered a dispute concerning the territorial jurisdiction and forum conveniens for entertaining a rectification petition seeking removal of marks from the list of well-known trade marks under the Trade Marks Act, 1999. The case arose from allegations that the impugned trade marks were wrongly declared as well-known by the Trade Marks Registry, Mumbai, despite pending infringement and passing-off proceedings involving the same marks before the Delhi High Court. The principal question before the Court was whether the Bombay High Court, though having statutory jurisdiction under Section 125 of the Trade Marks Act, ought to decline exercising such jurisdiction on the ground of forum conveniens.

After examining the material on record and the submissions of the parties, court observed that while jurisdiction under Section 125 was clearly vested in the High Court exercising appellate jurisdiction over the Trade Marks Registry that made the impugned entry, the Court was not bound to exercise such jurisdiction in all circumstances. The Court held that where substantially overlapping issues concerning the same marks and parties were already pending before another High Court, principles of forum conveniens, avoidance of multiplicity of proceedings, and prevention of conflicting decisions justified declining jurisdiction.

Accordingly, the Court disposed of the petition, granting liberty to the petitioner to initiate appropriate proceedings before the Delhi High Court.

Disclaimer: Readers are advised not treat this as a substitute for legal advise as it is based on limited information and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

Analytical Legal Article

Trademark cancellation is maintainable against a well known trademark

Introduction

The decision in Raman Kwatra v. The Registrar of Trade Marks assumes considerable significance in the evolving jurisprudence governing trade mark rectification proceedings against a well known trademark, particularly in relation to well-known trade marks. The judgment addresses a recurring and practical dilemma faced by litigants and practitioners alike: whether statutory jurisdiction alone is sufficient, or whether courts must also consider convenience, overlap of issues, and the risk of conflicting decisions when parallel proceedings are pending before different High Courts. By harmonising the statutory framework of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 with the doctrine of forum conveniens, the Court has delivered a ruling of substantial relevance to brand owners, intellectual property litigators, and registry-related disputes across India.

Factual and Procedural Background

The dispute arose from the declaration of certain trade marks as “well-known” by the Trade Marks Registry at Mumbai. The petitioner challenged the inclusion of these marks in the official list of well-known trade marks, contending that the declaration was erroneous and liable to be rectified and removed under the provisions of the Trade Marks Act, 1999. The declaration of the marks as well-known had not followed a detailed adjudicatory process but was made through publication by the Registry.

At the same time, infringement and passing-off proceedings involving the very same marks and parties were already pending before the Delhi High Court. Both parties carried on business within the territorial jurisdiction of Delhi, and the underlying trade mark registrations had been applied for and granted by the Trade Marks Registry at New Delhi. Subsequently, the well-known trade marks section of the Registry itself was shifted to New Delhi.

The petitioner nonetheless invoked Section 125 and Section 57 of the Trade Marks Act and filed the rectification petition before the Bombay High Court, asserting that jurisdiction was vested there since the impugned declaration had been made by the Mumbai Registry. The respondents raised a preliminary objection, not disputing jurisdiction in the strict statutory sense, but urging the Court to decline entertaining the petition on the ground of forum conveniens.

Dispute Before the Court

The core issue before the Court was whether, despite having jurisdiction under Section 125 and 57 of the Trade Marks Act, the Bombay High Court ought to exercise that jurisdiction or decline it in favour of the Delhi High Court. The petitioner argued that rectification proceedings were independent of infringement actions and that the statute deliberately anchored jurisdiction to the Registry that made the impugned entry. It was contended that considerations such as dynamic effect of trade marks or convenience could not override the clear legislative scheme.

On the other hand, the respondents contended that parallel proceedings concerning the same marks and overlapping issues were already pending before the Delhi High Court, creating a real risk of conflicting findings. They argued that courts must adopt a pragmatic approach to prevent multiplicity of proceedings and that the Delhi High Court was the more appropriate forum to comprehensively adjudicate disputes relating to the validity, use, goodwill, and enforceability of the marks.

Reasoning and Analysis of the Court

The Court undertook a detailed examination of Sections 57, 91, 124 and 125 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, read with the Trade Marks Rules, 2017. It reaffirmed that Section 125 vests jurisdiction in the High Court exercising appellate jurisdiction over the Trade Marks Registry that processed the impugned entry. On this basis, the Court rejected the contention that it lacked jurisdiction to entertain the petition.

However, the Court drew a clear distinction between the existence of jurisdiction and the exercise of jurisdiction. It emphasised that statutory jurisdiction does not mandate its mechanical exercise in all cases, particularly where doing so may lead to conflicting decisions and judicial inefficiency. The Court relied upon earlier decisions, including those addressing rectification proceedings and jurisdictional coherence, to underline that the legislative intent of the Trade Marks Act is to avoid uncertainty and multiplicity of proceedings.

The Court also examined the nature of a declaration of a well-known trade mark and noted that such declarations are essentially administrative or ministerial acts that do not involve a detailed adjudicatory process or a reasoned order. Consequently, the validity of the underlying trade mark registration, along with issues of goodwill, reputation, and use, would inevitably be examined in greater depth in infringement and passing-off proceedings.

Court held that rectification petition under Section 57 of Trademarks Act 1999 is maintainable against a Trademark , which has been declared as well known by the Registrar of Trademark as Appeal against such orders are not convenient remedy.

Significantly, the Court recognised that even if infringement proceedings were stayed pending rectification, passing-off claims could still proceed, thereby perpetuating the risk of inconsistent findings. The Court further rejected the argument that the Trade Marks Act is a self-contained code that excludes the application of forum conveniens, holding that nothing in the statute prohibits courts from adopting a pragmatic approach to ensure coherent adjudication.

In light of the overlapping issues, the pendency of earlier proceedings in Delhi, the location of parties, and the transfer of the well-known trade marks section to New Delhi, the Court concluded that the Delhi High Court was the more appropriate forum to adjudicate the dispute.

Final Decision of the Court

The Court upheld the preliminary objection based on forum conveniens. While affirming that it possessed jurisdiction under Section 125 of the Trade Marks Act, it declined to exercise such jurisdiction in the facts of the case. The petition was disposed of, and liberty was granted to the petitioner to initiate appropriate proceedings before the Delhi High Court.

Point of Law Settled

Court held that rectification petition under Section 57 of Trademarks Act 1999 is maintainable against a Trademark . The also judgment clarifies that although jurisdiction for rectification proceedings under Section 125 of the Trade Marks Act is statutorily vested in a specific High Court, such jurisdiction need not be exercised in every case. Courts may legitimately decline to exercise jurisdiction on the ground of forum conveniens where parallel proceedings involving substantially overlapping issues are pending before another competent High Court. The ruling reinforces the principle that avoidance of conflicting decisions and multiplicity of proceedings is of paramount importance in trade mark litigation, including disputes involving well-known trade marks.

Case Details

Title of the Case: Raman Kwatra Vs. The Registrar of Trade Marks & Anr.

Date of Judgment/Order: 15.06.2026

Case Number: IAL-23211-2025 in Com Misc Pet (L) No. 36812 of 2024

Neutral Citation: 2026:BHC-OS:13306

Name of Court: High Court of Judicature at Bombay

Name of Hon'ble Judge: Justice Arif S. Doctor

Written By:Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor [Patent and Trademark Attorney], High Court of Delhi

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Headnote of the Judgment

Raman Kwatra v. The Registrar of Trade Marks & Anr., Bombay High Court, IAL-23211-2025, decided on 15 June 2026. The petitioner sought rectification and removal of certain marks from the list of well-known trade marks under Section 125 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999. Though the Court held that it possessed jurisdiction as the impugned declaration was made by the Mumbai Registry, it declined to exercise jurisdiction on the ground of forum conveniens, noting that infringement and passing-off proceedings involving the same marks were already pending before the Delhi High Court with overlapping issues. The petition was disposed of with liberty to approach the Delhi High Court.

Infographic Thumbnail Prompt

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