The Delhi High Court has granted interim relief to Castrol Limited in a trademark dispute concerning its ‘3X PROTECTION’ mark used on engine oil packaging. The ruling shields the company from alleged groundless threats and ensures business continuity until the next hearing.
Court Proceedings
A single judge delivered the order on September 4, 2025, after hearing Castrol’s plea. The lubricant manufacturer complained that the Nashik police, allegedly influenced by the defendant, Sanjay Sonavane, had seized its products bearing the ‘3X’ mark from an authorized distributor.
Castrol argued that the action was unwarranted and based on a false claim of similarity between its ‘3X’ marks and Sonavane’s registered ‘3P’ marks in Class 4, which cover oils, lubricants, and greases.
Court’s Findings
The High Court observed that the only common element between the two sets of marks was the numeral “3.” It held that exclusive rights cannot be claimed over a single digit, particularly when the overall trade dress, wording, and design were distinct.
The Court concluded that Castrol had made out a prima facie case of harassment through unjustified threats. It also ruled that such actions could not be allowed to disrupt legitimate business operations.
Interim Relief Granted
Accordingly, the Court restrained Sanjay Sonavane from issuing or pursuing groundless threats of trademark or copyright infringement against Castrol. The interim protection will continue until the next date of hearing, scheduled for December 9, 2025.
Broader Implications
This ruling reinforces the principle that numerical elements alone do not establish trademark exclusivity. It also highlights judicial support for companies facing misuse of enforcement mechanisms in intellectual property disputes.
Earlier this year, in February 2025, the Delhi High Court had awarded Castrol ₹20 lakh in damages and issued a permanent injunction in another case involving its ‘ACTIV’ and ‘ACTIBOND’ marks. The latest relief further strengthens the company’s position in protecting its distinctive branding and trade dress.
