Information on this blog is being shared only for the purpose of creating legal awareness in public at large, especially in the field of Intellectual Property Right. As there may be possibility of error, omission or mistake in legal interpretation on the contents of this blog, it should not be treated as substitute for legal advise.
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
Sanofi and another Vs Zanofi Pharmaceutical Pvt. Ltd.
Maruti Ispat & Energy Pvt. Ltd. Vs Chetna Steel Tubes Pvt. Ltd.
Introduction:
Trademark protection is fundamental to safeguarding the distinctiveness and reputation of brands in commerce. However, disputes often arise when trademarks are allegedly diluted through widespread use or inaction by the trademark owner. This article analyzes a recent legal case where the defendant asserted that the plaintiff's trademark had become generic due to the plaintiff's failure to object to third-party usage.
Background of the Case:
The case at hand involves an appeal filed by the defendant against an order granting interim injunctions to the plaintiff in a trademark infringement dispute. The plaintiff, holding the trademark "SHAKTI," sought to restrain the defendant's use of a similar mark, "MS SHAKTI." The defendant argued that the plaintiff's inaction against other parties using similar marks implied that the mark had become generic and common to trade.
Legal Analysis:
The central legal issue in this case revolves around the concept of trademark dilution and the standard for proving genericness. Trademark dilution occurs when a mark loses its distinctiveness due to extensive use by third parties or failure to enforce trademark rights. However, establishing genericness requires more than mere inaction by the trademark owner.
The court's dismissal of the defendant's argument underscores the principle that non-action by the plaintiff against other parties does not automatically render the mark generic. Rather, the defendant must provide evidence to substantiate the claim of genericness. In this case, the court rightly held that the defendant failed to present prima facie material demonstrating that the mark "SHAKTI" had become generic in the trade.
Conclusion:
Trademark disputes involving allegations of dilution require careful consideration of legal principles and evidence. The recent case discussed highlights the significance of substantiating claims of genericness through proper evidence, rather than relying on the plaintiff's inaction alone.
Case Title: Maruti Ispat & Energy Pvt. Ltd. Vs Chetna Steel Tubes Pvt. Ltd.
Order Date: 23.02.2024
Case No. O.S.A (CAD).Nos.122 and 123 of 2023
Neutral Citation:2024:MHC:6521
Name of Court: Madras High Court
Name of Hon'ble Judge: Mr. Sanjay Gangapurwala and Bharatha Chakravarthy, HJ
Disclaimer:
This article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as substitute for legal advice as Ideas, thoughts, views, information, discussions and interpretation perceived and expressed herein are subject to my subjectivity and may contain human errors in perception, interpretation and presentation of the fact and issue of law involved herein.
Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman
IP Adjutor - Patent and Trademark Attorney
Email: ajayamitabhsuman@gmail.com
Ph No: 9990389539
Crocs INC Vs The Registrar of Trademarks and another
Introduction:
In the intricate world of trademarks and intellectual property, clashes often arise when similar marks are used for related goods or services. One such dispute unfolded between "CROCKSCLUB" and "CROCS," involving trademarks in the realm of fashion.
Background:
Trademark protection serves to distinguish the goods or services of one entity from another in the marketplace. When trademarks bear resemblance and relate to similar products, conflicts may emerge. Such was the case with "CROCKSCLUB" and "CROCS."
The Dispute:
The dispute stemmed from the similarity between the trademarks "CROCKSCLUB" and "CROCS," despite their intended use for different product categories. While "CROCS" was registered for footwear, "CROCKSCLUB" aimed to establish its presence in the clothing sector. However, the proximity in sound and visual appearance between the two marks raised concerns.
Legal Proceedings:
In response to the trademark application for "CROCKSCLUB," "CROCS" initiated legal action, filing a rectification petition to challenge the registration. The basis of the petition rested on several factors:
1. Prior Registration: "CROCS" held prior registration for footwear, establishing its rights and precedence in the market.
2. Similarity of Trademarks: The phonetic and visual resemblance between "CROCKSCLUB" and "CROCS" raised the possibility of consumer confusion.
3. Similarity of Goods: Although "CROCKSCLUB" intended to operate in the clothing domain, the overlap with footwear – the core business of "CROCS" – contributed to the contention.
Outcome:
Following a thorough review of the case, including examination of the trademarks and their respective goods, the trademark authorities ruled in favor of "CROCS." The rectification petition filed by "CROCS" led to the cancellation or amendment of the "CROCKSCLUB" trademark.
Implications:
The resolution of the dispute carried significant implications for both parties involved. For "CROCS," it reinforced the protection of its established brand and prevented potential dilution or confusion in the footwear market. On the other hand, "CROCKSCLUB" faced setbacks in its efforts to establish a distinctive identity in the clothing sector, highlighting the challenges of navigating trademark conflicts in a competitive industry.
Conclusion:
The case of "CROCKSCLUB" versus "CROCS" exemplifies the complexities inherent in trademark disputes, particularly when trademarks share similarities and relate to overlapping product categories. Through legal proceedings, the resolution prioritized the protection of prior rights and the prevention of consumer confusion, underscoring the significance of thorough trademark analysis and strategic decision-making in intellectual property management.
The Case Discussed:
Case Title: Crocs INC Vs The Registrar of Trademarks and another
Judgment/Order Date: 08.04.2024
Case No: CO Comm IPD TM 779 of 2022
Neutral Citation: NA
Name of Court: High Court of Delhi
Name of Hon'ble Judge: Anish Dayal, H.J.
Disclaimer:
This article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as substitute for legal advice as Ideas, thoughts, views, information, discussions and interpretation perceived and expressed herein are subject to my subjectivity and may contain human errors in perception, interpretation and presentation of the fact and issue of law involved herein.
Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman
IP Adjutor - Patent and Trademark Attorney
Email: ajayamitabhsuman@gmail.com
Ph No: 9990389539
Mallcom India Limited Vs Shanti Udyog Weldsafe Private Limited and Ors
Mohd. Shakir Vs Gopal Traders and another
Introduction:
The subject matter of this legal analysis revolves around a petition seeking rectification of copyright MYA, with the petitioner contending that Respondent No. 1 is not the original creator of the copyright. The petitioner alleges that a third party located outside of India holds the true authorship of the artwork MYA. However, the court dismissed the petition, highlighting the petitioner's reliance on trademark registrations by the third party as unsustainable due to procedural and evidentiary inadequacies.
Rectification of Copyright and the Burden of Proof:
Rectification of copyright involves the correction of errors or inaccuracies in the copyright register, typically concerning ownership or authorship. In the present case, the petitioner seeks rectification based on the assertion that the copyright in MYA belongs to a third party outside of India, challenging the claim of Respondent No. 1 as the originator. However, the burden rests on the petitioner to substantiate their claim with compelling evidence demonstrating the inaccuracy of the existing copyright registration.
Importance of Originator Identity and Evidence:
Central to the dispute is the identity of the true originator of the copyrighted artwork MYA. The petitioner contends that the third party, situated outside of India, holds rightful ownership of the copyright. However, the court emphasizes the necessity of incontrovertible evidence to support such claims, particularly in the absence of the third party's participation in the proceedings. The petitioner's reliance solely on trademark registrations obtained by the third party in Australia and other countries is deemed insufficient to conclusively establish their ownership of the copyright.
Role of Trademark Registrations in Copyright Disputes:
Trademark registrations serve as valuable indicators of intellectual property rights but are not inherently determinative of copyright ownership. While trademark registrations by a third party may suggest a connection to the artwork MYA, they do not inherently prove authorship or legitimate ownership of the copyright. The court rightly cautions against basing copyright rectification solely on extraneous and unverified evidence, such as trademark registrations, without corroborating evidence directly addressing copyright ownership.
The Case Discussed:
Case Title: Mohd. Shakir Vs Gopal Traders and another
Judgment/Order Date: 08.04.2024
Case No: Co Comm IPD CR 699 OF 2022
Neutral Citation: NA
Name of Court: High Court of Delhi
Name of Hon'ble Judge:Anish Dayal, H.J.
Disclaimer:
This article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as substitute for legal advice as Ideas, thoughts, views, information, discussions and interpretation perceived and expressed herein are subject to my subjectivity and may contain human errors in perception, interpretation and presentation of the fact and issue of law involved herein.
Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman
IP Adjutor - Patent and Trademark Attorney
Email: ajayamitabhsuman@gmail.com
Ph No: 9990389539
PM Diesels P Ltd. Vs Thukral Mechanical Works
P.M. Diesels Private Limited vs. Thukral Mechanical Works:An interim injunction cannot be granted against a registered trade mark owner unless the registration is declared invalid
Case Title: P.M. Diesels Private Limited vs. Thukral Mechanical Works
Date of Order: 19 January 1988
Neutral Citation: AIR 1988 DELHI 282, 1988(1) ARBLR 150 (DELHI), 34 (1988) DLT 235, 1988 (15) DRJ 47
Court: Delhi High Court
Judge: Hon'ble Justice Shri Justice B.N. Kirpal
Introduction:The case of P.M. Diesels Private Limited vs. Thukral Mechanical Works revolved around trademark infringement and the concept of passing off under the Trade and Merchandise Marks Act, 1958. The dispute arose regarding the use of the trade mark "Field Marshal," which both parties claimed rights over in relation to diesel oil engines and centrifugal pumps. The plaintiff sought an injunction to prevent the defendant from using the trade mark, while the defendant argued that it was the registered proprietor of the mark for centrifugal pumps. This case is significant in defining the rights of registered trade mark owners and prior users.
Factual Background:P.M. Diesels Private Limited had been engaged in the business of manufacturing, marketing, and exporting diesel oil engines, centrifugal pumps, and electric motors since 1963. It had obtained registration of the trade mark "Field Marshal" under the Trade and Merchandise Marks Act, 1958. Thukral Mechanical Works was also manufacturing centrifugal pumps and had adopted the trade mark "Field Marshal" for its products. The plaintiff alleged that the defendant was infringing its registered trade mark and engaging in passing off, which misled customers into believing that the defendant’s products were associated with the plaintiff. The plaintiff obtained an ex parte injunction on 19 December 1985, restraining the defendant from manufacturing or selling goods under the trade mark "Field Marshal." However, the defendant contested this order, arguing that it was the registered proprietor of the trade mark for centrifugal pumps, having acquired it through an assignment from Jain Industries, Agra, in 1986.
Procedural Background:The plaintiff initially filed a suit for a perpetual injunction, preventing the defendant from using the mark "Field Marshal" for diesel oil engines and related products. The Delhi High Court granted an ex parte injunction on 19 December 1985. The defendant challenged the injunction, asserting its trade mark registration for centrifugal pumps. The plaintiff subsequently filed C.O. 6/87 for rectification of the trade mark register, seeking removal of the defendant’s registration. The court considered whether the plaintiff, despite being a prior user, could restrain the defendant from using a trade mark registered in its favor.
Issues Involved:Whether the plaintiff could restrain the defendant from using the trade mark "Field Marshal" despite the defendant’s registration? Whether the defendant’s registration of the trade mark for centrifugal pumps was valid? Whether the plaintiff’s prior use of the trade mark gave it a superior right over the registered proprietor? Whether the defendant had engaged in fraudulent activities to secure the trade mark registration? Whether the principles of "passing off" were applicable in this case?
Submission of Parties:The plaintiff argued that it had been using the trade mark "Field Marshal" since 1963 and had goodwill and reputation in the market. The defendant’s use of the trade mark constituted infringement and passing off, causing confusion among consumers. The defendant had fraudulently acquired registration for centrifugal pumps and manipulated trade mark records. The plaintiff’s application for rectification should be given precedence, and an interim injunction should be maintained until a final decision on rectification.
The defendant countered that it was the registered proprietor of the trade mark for centrifugal pumps, which was assigned to it by Jain Industries, Agra. Under Section 28 of the Trade and Merchandise Marks Act, 1958, a registered proprietor had an exclusive right to use the trade mark. The plaintiff never challenged the registration when it was first granted in 1965 to Jain Industries. The plaintiff could not seek an injunction because the registration of the trade mark was prima facie valid under Section 31 of the Act.
Discussion on Judgments Cited:The plaintiff relied on Narayanan’s Trade Marks and Passing Off, which states that prior user rights override registration rights, citing Section 33 of the Trade and Merchandise Marks Act, 1958. The defendant relied on M/s. Mayor Brothers v. M/s. Watkins Mayor & Co., IA 2061/78 in Suit No. 530/78, decided on 13 April 1983, where the Delhi High Court refused to grant an injunction against a registered proprietor of a trade mark. The defendant also cited Marfleet Refining Co. v. Warden Chemicals, IA 2969/82 in Suit No. 1024/82, where the court held that an injunction cannot be granted against a registered proprietor unless the trade mark is removed from the register. The plaintiff referred to Valentine Extract Co. Ltd., (1901) 18 RPC 175, arguing that an injunction can be granted if a trade mark was fraudulently obtained. However, the court found this case inapplicable as it did not involve Sections 28 and 31 of the Indian Act.
Reasoning and Analysis of the Judge:Justice B.N. Kirpal analyzed the case based on the principles of trade mark registration, prior user rights, and passing off. Registration of the Trade Mark: Under Section 28, a registered proprietor has the exclusive right to use the trade mark. The defendant was the registered owner of the trade mark "Field Marshal" for centrifugal pumps. Prior User Rights: The plaintiff claimed prior user rights under Section 33, but this did not give the plaintiff the right to restrain a registered proprietor. Prima Facie Validity: Under Section 31, the defendant’s registration was prima facie valid, and the plaintiff had to prove fraud in rectification proceedings. Co-existence of Rights: Since both parties were registered proprietors for different goods, Section 28(3) applied, preventing one from restraining the other. Allegations of Fraud: The court held that allegations of fraudulent registration could only be decided in the rectification proceedings.
Final Decision:The court vacated the interim injunction and allowed the defendant to use the trade mark "Field Marshal" for centrifugal pumps. The defendant was required to not use the logo/style owned by the plaintiff, mention "Thukral Mechanical Works, Sirhind" on its products, and maintain accounts of sales under the trade mark.The plaintiff was allowed to pursue rectification proceedings, but until the trade mark was removed, the defendant retained its registered trade mark rights.
Law Settled in This Case:A registered proprietor has exclusive rights under Section 28 unless the trade mark is removed. Prior user rights do not automatically override trade mark registration. An interim injunction cannot be granted against a registered trade mark owner unless the registration is declared invalid. Allegations of fraud must be decided in rectification proceedings, not in an injunction application. Co-existence of trade mark rights under Section 28(3) applies if both parties have separate registrations.
Disclaimer:This article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as substitute for legal advice as Ideas, thoughts, views, information, discussions and interpretation perceived and expressed herein are subject to my subjectivity and may contain human errors in perception, interpretation and presentation of the fact and issue of law involved herein.
Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman, IP Adjutor - Patent and Trademark Attorney, Delhi High Court
Manisha Mahendra Gala and Ors Vs Shalini Bhagwan
Daiwa Pharmaceuticals Co Ltd. Vs Daiwa Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.
Introduction:
The case at hand involves patent litigation between FMC and NATCO, encompassing multiple legal fora including the High Court of Delhi and the District Court in Chandigarh. Here I aim to provide a detailed analytical examination of the legal implications and rationale behind the transfer of suits from the District Court to the High Court of Delhi by the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India.
Background:
FMC initiated patent infringement suits against NATCO before the High Court of Delhi, with NATCO responding by filing counterclaims. Subsequently, FMC filed three additional suits against NATCO before the District Court in Chandigarh, leading to a fragmented legal landscape with parallel proceedings in different jurisdictions. Complicating matters further, the suits involved overlapping claims pertaining to the same patent, IN298645, with a concurrent revocation petition regarding claim No.12, which was also subject to the suits before the District Court.
Legal Analysis:
The central issue before the Supreme Court was the consolidation of litigation concerning the same patent and involving identical parties across multiple forums. The court recognized the potential for conflicting judgments, inefficient adjudication, and forum shopping inherent in such a scenario. Therefore, the court invoked its inherent jurisdiction to transfer the suits from the District Court in Chandigarh to the High Court of Delhi to ensure judicial efficiency, consistency, and avoidance of multiplicity of proceedings.
Implication:
The Supreme Court's decision to transfer the patent infringement suits from the District Court in Chandigarh to the High Court of Delhi exemplifies a judicious exercise of judicial authority to promote efficiency, consistency, and fairness in multi-forum litigation. By prioritizing the principles of jurisdictional unity, avoidance of forum shopping, patent law consistency, and judicial efficiency, the court advanced the interests of justice and upheld the integrity of the legal process.
The Case Discussed:
Case Title: Daiwa Pharmaceuticals Co Ltd. Vs Daiwa Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.
Judgment/Order Date: 16.04.2024
Case No: Comm IP Suit No. 82 of 2023
Neutral Citation: 2024:BHC:OS:6232
Name of Court: Delhi High Court
Name of Hon'ble Judge: R.I.Chagla,H.J.
Disclaimer:
This article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as substitute for legal advice as Ideas, thoughts, views, information, discussions and interpretation perceived and expressed herein are subject to my subjectivity and may contain human errors in perception, interpretation and presentation of the fact and issue of law involved herein.
Written By: Advocate Ajay Amitabh Suman
IP Adjutor - Patent and Trademark Attorney
Email: ajayamitabhsuman@gmail.com
Ph No: 9990389539
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