Dhariwal Wooltex Vs British India Corporation Limited and another

The present case revolves around a dispute over the registration of the DHARIWALWOOLTEX device mark. The appellant asserts that they have been using this mark since 1 January 1984 and have provided evidence of such usage starting from 15 May 1984. The pivotal issue is whether the appellant's delayed submission of evidence should be held against them, leading to the rejection of their application for registration. This article critically examines the appellant's claims, the legal principles governing such cases, and the fairness of the Joint Registrar's decision.

Background

The appellant's contention is that, while the opportunity to present evidence of usage of the DHARIWALWOOLTEX device mark emerged 13 years after filing the application, they cannot be faulted for not having the material to evidence the usage at the time of filing. The appellant argues that this delay in submitting evidence should not serve as grounds for dismissing their claim of user, especially given the circumstances.

Legal Framework

In matters of trademark registration, the burden of proof lies with the applicant to demonstrate the usage of the mark in commerce. Trademark law recognizes the importance of actual usage to establish rights over a mark and prevent trademark squatting. The delay in providing evidence of use, however, may lead to skepticism about the veracity of the claim.

Analyzing the Appellant's Argument

The appellant's argument rests on the premise that they were unable to provide evidence of usage from 1 January 1984 due to the lack of material at that time. This assertion raises questions about the plausibility of their claim and the credibility of the evidence presented. It is essential to assess whether the appellant's explanation for the delay is reasonable and whether it affects the veracity of their claim.

Joint Registrar's Decision

The Joint Registrar's rejection of the appellant's claim of user is primarily based on the assertion that the appellant filed a false claim of user. This decision appears to hinge on the assumption that the appellant's delay in presenting evidence implies a lack of genuine user of the mark. However, this interpretation might overlook legitimate reasons for the delay, such as the unavailability of records or the practical challenges of gathering historical evidence.

The Decision:

Claiming incorrect claim of user does not necessarily results into cancellation of registered Trademark. In this case, though the registered proprietor claimed a user, which is not supported by actual claim of use. The Hon'ble Court allowed the Trademark to remain on the register with amended claim of user, for which actual document of user was filed by the registered proprietor.

Case Law Discussed:

Case Title: Dhariwal Wooltex Vs British India Corporation Limited and another

Date of Judgement:16.08.2023

Case No. CA (Comm IPD-TM) 17/2022

Neutral Citation No: 2023: DHC: 5817

Name of Hon'ble Judge: C Hari Shankar

Name of Court: Delhi High Court

Disclaimer:

Information and discussion contained herein is being shared in the public Interest. The same should not be treated as substitute for expert advice as it is subject to my subjectivity and may contain human errors in perception, interpretation and presentation of the fact and issue involved herein.

Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman

IP ADJUTOR

Patent and Trademark Attorney

ajayamitabhsuman@gmail.com

9990389539