Puma SE v Ashok Kumar

"Protecting intellectual property rights: Puma SE triumphs in trademark infringement case against Ashok Kumar".

Case Overview

- Plaintiff: Puma SE, a German sports brand with a significant presence in the sports apparel market since 1948.

- Defendant: Ashok Kumar, trading as "Kumkum Shoes" or "R.K. Industries", engaged in manufacturing and selling counterfeit Puma products.

Key Points

- Trademark Infringement: Puma SE alleged that Ashok Kumar infringed on its well-established trademark "PUMA" and associated logos by manufacturing and selling counterfeit products.

- Local Commissioner's Report: The court-appointed Local Commissioner seized 156 pairs of shoes and other products bearing the Puma mark, which were deemed counterfeit.

- Damages Awarded: The Delhi High Court awarded damages of Rs. 10 lakhs to Puma SE, considering the defendant's profits and the duration of infringement.

Court's Decision

- Injunction: The court granted a permanent injunction restraining Ashok Kumar from manufacturing, wholesaling, supplying, selling, or dealing in any products bearing the Puma mark or logo.

- Damages and Costs: Ashok Kumar was ordered to pay damages and costs within eight weeks, failing which Puma SE could seek execution and other remedies.