HCL Corporation Pvt Ltd

"Protecting brand identity: Court restrains unauthorized use of 'HCL' trademark to prevent consumer confusion."

Short Description :

The Delhi High Court granted a temporary injunction in favor of HCL Corporation Pvt Ltd, restraining Healthcare HCL Reference Laboratories from using the 'HCL' trademark due to trademark infringement and likelihood of confusion among consumers.

Key Points :

- Prima Facie Case : Justice Amit Bansal found a prima facie case of unauthorized use of the impugned trademarks by the defendants, noting that the marks are deceptively similar and likely to cause confusion in the market.

- Similarity in Marks : The defendants' use of identical blue-and-white color combinations and similar marks was deemed to create a high likelihood of confusion among consumers.

- Bad Faith : HCL Corporation argued that the defendants' actions were in bad faith, aiming to falsely associate themselves with HCL's established brand and goodwill.

- Prior Use : HCL Corporation claimed to have adopted the 'HCL' trademark in 2012 for healthcare services and has a reputation in the market.

- Cease and Desist Notice : Despite receiving a cease-and-desist notice, the defendants continued using the marks, leading to the court's interim order.

Interim Order Details :

- The court directed the defendants to remove all online content, URLs, and posts associated with the impugned trademarks.

- The defendants are restrained from marketing, selling, or providing goods or services under the disputed marks.

- Summons were issued in the main lawsuit, with the next hearing scheduled for March 25, 2025.