Dhanuka Agritech Secures Interim Injunction Against Counterfeit Agrochemicals

Dhanuka Agritech Secures Interim Injunction Against Counterfeit Agrochemicals

Introduction

The Delhi High Court has granted interim relief to Dhanuka Agritech, an agrochemical company, in a trademark infringement case against Agrim Wholesale Private Limited and other unknown parties.

Factual Background

Dhanuka Agritech alleged that Agrim Wholesale sold unauthorized and counterfeit agrochemical products using Dhanuka's trademarks, including the registered "DHANUKA" mark. The suit claimed that Agrim Wholesale's actions constituted trademark infringement, passing off, dilution, and unfair competition.

Procedural Background

The court granted an ex-parte ad-interim injunction restraining the defendants from using Dhanuka Agritech's trademarks or any deceptively similar marks. The court also appointed local commissioners to inspect the defendants' premises.

Issues

1. Trademark Infringement: Whether the defendants infringed on Dhanuka Agritech's trademarks.

2. Interim Injunction: Whether the court should grant an interim injunction to restrain the defendants from further infringing on Dhanuka Agritech's trademarks.

Contentions of the Parties

Plaintiff's Contentions:

• The defendants are selling unauthorized and counterfeit agrochemical products using Dhanuka's trademarks.
• The defendants' actions are causing harm to Dhanuka Agritech's reputation and business.

Reasoning & Analysis

The bench of Justice Tejas Karia recognized Dhanuka Agritech's long-standing reputation, goodwill, and statutory compliance in the agrochemical sector. The court found that the defendants' actions constituted trademark infringement and granted the interim injunction.

Decision

The court granted the interim injunction, restraining the defendants from:

• Using Dhanuka Agritech's trademarks or any deceptively similar marks.
• Selling, soliciting, advertising, importing, exporting, or offering for sale any counterfeit or unauthorized agrochemical products bearing Dhanuka marks.
• Engaging in any acts that may mislead customers or dilute the goodwill and reputation of Dhanuka Agritech.

Directions

• Removal of Infringing Listings: The defendants have been directed to remove infringing listings within 72 hours of notice.
• Local Commissioners: The court appointed local commissioners to inspect the defendants' premises.

Implications

The court's decision highlights the importance of protecting intellectual property rights in the agrochemical sector. The matter has been listed for hearing on 29th January, 2026.