Puma Wins Trademark Case in Delhi High Court, Awarded ₹3.5 Lakh Costs

15-Apr-2024

Delhi - In a victory for brand protection, the Delhi High Court has ruled in favor of German sportswear giant Puma in a trademark infringement lawsuit. The court permanently banned the defendant, Ashok Kumar trading as RK Industries, from manufacturing products using Puma's trademark. 

Justice Anish Dayal, presiding over the case, also awarded Puma ₹3.5 lakh to cover legal costs. The court found that Kumar was indeed infringing upon Puma's trademark by manufacturing clothing items with the Puma logo. 

Court Findings 

According to a local commissioner's report presented in court, a raid on Kumar's premises revealed 383 pairs of lowers or track pants bearing the Puma trademark, along with 64 stickers with the same logo. This evidence solidified the court's decision in Puma's favor. 

Cost Award 

Puma had reportedly claimed litigation costs of ₹6.09 lakh, which included court fees, local commissioner fees, and lawyer fees. The court acknowledged these expenses and awarded Puma ₹3.5 lakh to offset the legal burden. 

Significance of the Ruling 

This judgment serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting intellectual property rights in India. It reinforces the legal recourse available to brands to combat trademark infringement and safeguard their brand reputation. 

Further Developments 

While the court order details the permanent injunction and cost award, it is not publicly available if any additional damages were awarded to Puma for the infringed products.