LV Wins! Counterfeiters Caged By Court Order, With Anand & Anand As Legal Representatives

LV Wins! Counterfeiters Caged By Court Order, With Anand & Anand As Legal Representatives

Introduction

The Delhi High Court granted a permanent injunction in favor of Louis Vuitton Malletier, a luxury fashion and leather goods company, against defendants found to be infringing on their registered trademarks.

Factual Background

Louis Vuitton Malletier, a French luxury fashion and leather goods company, has been a global leader in its industry since 1854. The company owns several registered trademarks in India, including the "LOUIS VUITTON" wordmark, "LV" logo, and various patterns.

Procedural Background

The case was filed by Louis Vuitton Malletier against Raj Belts & Ors. for trademark infringement and passing off. The court, presided over by Justice Mini Pushkarna, heard arguments from both parties and considered the evidence presented.

Issues Involved in the Case

1. Whether the defendants' use of Louis Vuitton's registered trademarks constituted trademark infringement.

2. Whether the defendants' actions amounted to passing off.

3. Whether Louis Vuitton Malletier was entitled to damages and a permanent injunction.

Submissions of the Parties

Plaintiff (Louis Vuitton Malletier): The defendants' use of Louis Vuitton's registered trademarks was an attempt to exploit Louis Vuitton's goodwill and brand reputation. The plaintiff sought damages and a permanent injunction.

Defendants (Raj Belts & Ors.): The defendants did not contest the allegations and acknowledged the infringement.

Discussion on Judgments and Legal Citations

The court relied on relevant case law, including previous judgments on trademark infringement and passing off.

Reasoning and Analysis by the Judge

The court's decision was based on the principles of trademark infringement and passing off. The court found that the defendants' actions were an attempt to exploit Louis Vuitton's goodwill and brand reputation. “The court held that the defendants' use of Louis Vuitton's trademarks was a clear case of trademark infringement and passing off.”

Basis for Calculating Damages

No damages were awarded in this case, but the defendants were directed to pay costs to the plaintiff.

Final Decision

The court granted a permanent injunction against Raj Belts & Ors., restraining them from using Louis Vuitton's protected marks. The court also directed the defendants to pay costs to the plaintiff.

Law Settled in This Case

The case establishes that trademark infringement can have serious consequences, including significant damages and reputational harm.

In this case, Louis Vuitton Malletier was represented by Team Anand & Anand led by Dhruv Anand, Sampurnaa Sanyal, and Dhananjay Khanna, Advocates.