Intellectual Property Rights
The Jiohotstar Domain saga
The recent domain dispute involving jiohotstar.com has sparked a broader online discussion, highlighting a familiar narrative of “big corporation versus individual.” While some recognized the legal underpinnings of the issue, much of the debate centred on the perception that Reliance Jio should…
Coexistence of Similar Pharmaceutical Names: An Analysis of Judicial Interpretation
Trademarks provide an advantage to businesses by distinguishing one’s product from others. However, it is common for infringers to use a similar mark in the industry and try to reap the goodwill that the initial user had secured over years. The pharma industry too faces the issue of similar marks…
The Evolving Liability of Domain Name Registrars: Snapdeal Private Limited v. Godaddycom LLC and Ors.
As the digital landscape evolves, the need to hold intermediaries to higher standards of accountability and duty of care has become increasingly pressing. This necessity arises from a growing trend in which intermediaries often overlook instances of infringement occurring on their platforms, to the…
Madrid Applications: The Effective way to overcome objections by Indian TMO
In today's globalized world, transborder reputation and the growing international presence of companies are undeniable realities. Intellectual property (IP) has become a critical aspect of business strategy, especially with the rise in counterfeit goods and bad-faith trademark registrations in…
Understanding the Indian Biological Diversity law, and its implications for Patent Applications involving Biological Resources
India's commitment to conserving its rich biodiversity is reflected in the Biological Diversity Act (BDA) of 2002. This legislation governs the use of biological resources and ensures that benefits arising from their use are shared fairly and equitably. For inventors seeking to patent inventions…
The Great Indian Copyright Conundrum: Goa’s Circular on Wedding Music and the Legal Tug-of-War
Goa, with its stunning beaches and lively festivities, has always been a popular destination for weddings and social events. However, a recent circular from the Goa government has stirred up a legal battle regarding copyright laws. This circular aimed to exempt wedding ceremonies and related…
Want to Remix a Song? Make sure not to get tangled with IP Infringement
In this era of Millennials and Gen Z, Spotify and other music apps seems to be the go-to platform, with everyone tuning in to music. From vibing to popular tracks to setting the trends on Instagram reels, music has been intertwined into everyone’s life so much that even common people are involved…
Court orders revival of opposition abandoned for not filing evidence in support on time when Counter Statement was not served
The petitioner, Coaster Shoes Company Pvt. Ltd., filed a writ petition seeking the quashing of an order passed by the Registrar of Trade Marks in October 2022, which abandoned their trademark opposition. The petitioner had opposed the trademark applications of Respondent No. 2 for the mark “Travel…
Swift action on trademark name changes: Court directs Trademark Office to expedite applications
The petitioner, M/s. Tiger Food Ingredients (P) Ltd. (formerly M/s. Manju Chemicals Private Ltd.), filed a writ petition seeking a mandamus to direct the Registrar of Trade Marks to consider their name change application (Form TM-P) dated June 5, 2024. The company's name was changed following a…
Analysis of Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 – An IPR Perspective
The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 which came into effect recently on August 1, 2024 has garnered significant attention across the country. The Act, having brought amendments to various Acts of our legislation, including those related to Intellectual Property (IP) and media laws…