The long-standing trademark dispute between Kirloskar Brothers Limited (KBL) and Kirloskar Proprietary Limited (KPL) has taken a new turn with the Pune District and Sessions Court granting interim relief to KBL. Here are the key developments in the case:
1. Court Ruling: Judge A.L. Tikle ruled in favor of KBL, restraining KPL from interfering with KBL’s use of the ‘Kirloskar’ brand name.
2. Dispute Background: The dispute dates back to 2018, with KBL claiming that the trademark was originally theirs and was assigned to KPL under a family arrangement to protect the Kirloskar group’s intellectual property.
3. Family Arrangement and Agreements: KBL alleged that the trademark assignment was conditional on user agreements that allowed group companies continued usage of the trademark. KPL issued termination notices in 2018 and 2024, prompting KBL to seek legal recourse.
4. Arguments from Both Parties: KBL argued that the termination notices were invalid and offered royalty payments to KPL. KPL claimed the agreements were terminable and that KBL had breached the terms.
5. Court’s Observations and Ruling: The court found in favor of KBL, noting that the trademark’s ownership would revert to KBL if agreements were not upheld. The interim injunction allows KBL to continue using the ‘Kirloskar’ trademark.
6. Potential Implications: The ruling ensures business continuity for KBL and protects the public’s reliance on the Kirloskar brand. KPL plans to appeal the decision in the High Court.
Overall, the interim relief granted by the Pune court is a significant victory for Kirloskar Brothers Limited in the ongoing trademark dispute, setting the stage for further legal proceedings and potential precedent-setting outcomes for family-run businesses with shared intellectual property.
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