IPR daily

Professor O.P. Katare Appointed as DPIIT IPR Chair Professor at Panjab University

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In a significant development for intellectual property research and policy advocacy, Professor O.P. Katare (Retired), has been appointed as the Chair Professor under the IPR Chair scheme at Panjab University.

The appointment order was formally issued by Panjab University Vice Chancellor, Professor Renu Vig, on Friday late evening, marking a new chapter in the university’s commitment to strengthening intellectual property (IP) education, innovation, and policy development.

A Stalwart in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Professor Katare, who previously served with distinction at UIPS, Panjab University, is widely recognized for his pioneering work in drug delivery systems, pharmaceutical formulation development, and translational research. With an illustrious academic and research career spanning over four decades, he has contributed extensively to both scientific literature and capacity-building in the Indian pharmaceutical landscape.

Prof. Katare has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and holds several patents in drug formulation and delivery. His work has not only elevated the stature of Panjab University but has also impacted drug development practices at a national level.

DPIIT IPR Chair: A Strategic Initiative

The DPIIT IPR Chair scheme is a Government of India initiative designed to promote research, training, and awareness in the field of intellectual property rights (IPR). Under this scheme, eminent scholars are appointed to lead academic and outreach efforts aimed at strengthening India’s IPR ecosystem.

As the newly appointed IPR Chair Professor, Prof. Katare will be tasked with conducting interdisciplinary research on IPR issues, organizing training programs and workshops for stakeholders, and advising on policy matters related to patents, trademarks, copyrights, and industrial designs.

“Prof. Katare’s appointment under the DPIIT IPR Chair scheme is a matter of immense pride for Panjab University,” said Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig. “His vast experience and deep understanding of innovation in the pharmaceutical sector will provide valuable insights into the evolving intellectual property landscape of India.”

Enhancing IPR Education and Policy

Prof. Katare’s role is expected to enhance the university’s academic offerings in the field of IPR and foster a culture of innovation-driven research. He is also likely to spearhead collaborations with industries, startups, legal experts, and policymakers to help translate academic research into real-world applications protected by robust IP frameworks.

Speaking on his appointment, Prof. Katare expressed gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. “I am honored to take on this responsibility at a time when India is striving to become a global leader in innovation and IP management. I look forward to contributing to policy formulation, capacity-building, and promoting IP literacy across academic and industrial sectors.”

A Boost for Panjab University’s National Standing

Panjab University has been among the few institutions selected for the DPIIT IPR Chair, reflecting its growing prominence in the national innovation and legal ecosystem. The appointment of an accomplished academic like Prof. Katare is expected to further consolidate the university’s reputation as a hub of IP excellence.

The university administration has indicated that under Prof. Katare’s leadership, new initiatives will be launched to encourage patent filings by faculty and students, host national-level conferences on IP policy, and work closely with DPIIT to align academic efforts with national IPR goals.

Conclusion

Prof. O.P. Katare’s appointment as the DPIIT IPR Chair Professor at Panjab University is not only a recognition of his stellar academic career but also a strategic move to strengthen India’s IPR landscape through informed research and outreach. As he steps into this influential role, expectations are high for new milestones in intellectual property awareness, innovation policy, and academic-industry collaboration.

Chandigarh Students Secure Patent for ‘GestureX’ – Revolutionary Smart Glasses that Translate Speech into Sign Language

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In a breakthrough moment for accessible technology in India, a team of students from Chandigarh has been awarded a design patent for their innovative invention – GestureX, a pair of smart glasses that can convert spoken language into sign language in real-time. This pioneering project aims to bridge communication gaps for the hearing-impaired, enhancing inclusivity in education, workplaces, and daily life.

Breaking Communication Barriers with Technology
GestureX represents a significant leap in assistive wearable technology. The device is expected to transform how individuals with hearing disabilities interact with the world around them, particularly in environments where sign language interpreters are unavailable.

The patent, granted under Class 16-06 (relating to communication equipment), marks formal recognition of the students’ innovation, positioning GestureX as a potential game-changer in inclusive communication tools.

How GestureX Works
The functionality of GestureX is underpinned by a combination of hardware and software components that work seamlessly together:

Built-in Microphones: The glasses are fitted with directional microphones that capture ambient speech in real-time.

Speech Recognition Engine: Advanced software processes spoken words and converts them into text-based commands.

Sign Language Renderer: A miniature display system integrated into the glasses projects animated sign language gestures that correspond to the recognized speech.

Efficient Power Management: Designed with lightweight battery systems, GestureX ensures portability and extended battery life for regular use.

The glasses have been optimized to recognize multiple accents and background noise, ensuring accuracy in varied environments like classrooms, conferences, or public transport.

Designed by Students, Backed by Innovation
The team behind GestureX comprises students from diverse technical backgrounds who came together with a shared vision to make technology more inclusive. Motivated by personal experiences and community challenges, the team sought to develop a tool that could empower the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities with greater independence and confidence.

According to the team spokesperson, “Our goal was to build something meaningful that could help real people in real situations. GestureX is not just a gadget—it’s a step toward equal access and inclusive communication.”

Broader Implications and Future Development
GestureX’s creators are in discussions with academic institutions and healthcare providers to initiate pilot testing of the device. Early trials will help refine the technology, particularly for use in multilingual settings where regional sign language variants are common.

Looking ahead, the team plans to integrate artificial intelligence to allow the glasses to adapt to individual speech patterns, improve gesture accuracy, and potentially support reverse translation—from sign language to spoken words—to facilitate two-way communication.

They are also exploring partnerships for manufacturing and scaling the product, with the aim of keeping it affordable for individuals and organizations that serve the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.

A Leap Forward in Assistive Tech
As India continues to promote inclusive innovation through programs like Startup India and the Atal Innovation Mission, projects like GestureX highlight the role of youth-led innovation in solving socially relevant problems. The device stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the potential for accessible design to foster greater equity in communication.

If successfully commercialized, GestureX could join the ranks of transformative assistive devices, not only within India but globally, providing a much-needed communication bridge in an increasingly interconnected world.

Maharashtra Professors Develop Low-Cost, Eco-Friendly Water Purifier; Secure Indian Patent

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In a remarkable breakthrough aimed at addressing the pressing issue of clean drinking water in underserved regions, a group of professors from Maharashtra has developed an innovative, low-cost, and eco-friendly water purifier. The invention, which combines simplicity with sustainability, has now been awarded a patent by the Indian government, marking a significant milestone in grassroots innovation and public health advancement.

The team, comprising researchers from a reputed government college in Maharashtra, designed the water purifier with the specific intent of making clean drinking water accessible to rural and tribal populations. The purifier operates without electricity and is made using locally available, biodegradable materials, making it both cost-effective and environmentally responsible.

According to the lead researcher, the purifier employs a multi-layer filtration technique using natural substances such as sand, activated charcoal derived from agricultural waste, and specially treated clay. This combination effectively removes physical impurities, pathogens, and certain chemical contaminants, thereby providing water that meets safety standards for human consumption.

What sets this invention apart is its alignment with public health ethics and community service. The professors undertook extensive fieldwork across tribal settlements and drought-prone villages in Maharashtra to understand the real-world challenges these communities face. “Our aim was to create a solution that is practical, affordable, and sustainable for people who are often overlooked by commercial technology,” said one of the researchers.

The purifier is expected to make a substantial impact in areas where waterborne diseases are rampant due to the lack of basic purification infrastructure. With its patent secured, the team now plans to collaborate with non-governmental organizations, self-help groups, and local governments to facilitate mass production and distribution.

Health experts have lauded the innovation for its potential to reduce the incidence of diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and dysentery—ailments that disproportionately affect rural populations. “This is an excellent example of how academic knowledge can be translated into real-world impact,” said Dr. Neha Jadhav, a public health specialist based in Pune.

The Indian patent not only protects the intellectual property rights of the inventors but also opens up avenues for further research and potential commercialization. Plans are underway to train local communities in assembling and maintaining the purifiers themselves, further empowering them through education and skill-building.

In a time when water scarcity and pollution are growing global concerns, this eco-friendly water purifier serves as a beacon of hope. It exemplifies how indigenous innovation, driven by social responsibility and ethical commitment, can lead to transformative change—especially for those living at the margins of society.

As the team prepares for the next phase of implementation, their work stands as a testament to the power of academia, community engagement, and sustainable innovation coming together to solve real-world problems.

Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara Patented in India; Launch Scheduled for September 2025

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Maruti Suzuki has officially patented its upcoming electric SUV, the e-Vitara, in India, marking a significant step towards its anticipated launch in September 2025. This move positions Maruti Suzuki to compete in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) market in India.

Design and Platform
The e-Vitara is built on the Heartect-e platform, a collaboration between Suzuki and Toyota. This platform integrates eAxles, combining the motor and inverter into a single unit, enhancing efficiency and performance. The SUV features a rugged design with elements like 3-point Matrix LED DRLs, rear lamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, and active air vents at the front to improve aerodynamics .

Battery Options and Range
Maruti Suzuki offers two battery pack options, the larger 61 kWh battery is expected to provide a range of over 500 km on a single charge, making it competitive in its segment .

Interior Features
Inside, the e-Vitara boasts a modern cabin with a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, ambient lighting, a floating center console, a wireless charging pad, and a panoramic glass roof. The SUV also offers a 10-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a 40:20:40 split rear seat configuration, enhancing comfort and practicality .

Safety and Technology
Safety features include seven airbags as standard across all variants, a 360-degree camera, and a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These features aim to provide a high level of safety for occupants .

Pricing and Launch Details
The e-Vitara is expected to be priced competitively, with the base 49 kWh variant starting around ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom). The 61 kWh variant could be priced at approximately ₹25 lakh, while the AllGrip-e AWD model may approach ₹30 lakh . Production is set to commence at Maruti’s Gujarat plant, with exports planned to over 100 countries, including Europe and Japan .


Competitors in the Indian Market
Upon launch, the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara will compete against several established and upcoming electric SUVs in India, including:

Tata Curvv EV: Expected to be priced between ₹17.49 lakh and ₹22.24 lakh .

Mahindra BE 6: Priced at ₹18.90 lakh .

Hyundai Creta Electric: Expected to be priced between ₹17.99 lakh and ₹24.38 lakh .

MG ZS EV: Priced between ₹18.98 lakh and ₹26.64 lakh .

With its competitive pricing, advanced features, and robust performance, the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara is poised to be a strong contender in the Indian electric SUV market.

Delhi High Court Clarifies Patent Law Standards in Landmark Ruling on Section 3(d) of the Indian Patents Act, 1970

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In a landmark judgment, the Delhi High Court has provided critical clarity on the interpretation and application of Section 3(d) of the Indian Patents Act, 1970, particularly in cases concerning pharmaceutical innovations. The decision, rendered in the matter of Ischemix LLC v. The Controller of Patents, emphasizes the standards of patentability and the admissibility of post-filing data in applications involving new forms of known substances.

Section 3(d): A Barrier to Evergreening
Section 3(d) of the Indian Patents Act is a unique provision designed to prevent the “evergreening” of patents—where pharmaceutical companies attempt to extend patent monopolies by making minor modifications to known substances. The provision stipulates that a new form of a known substance is patentable only if it results in a significant enhancement of efficacy. In the context of pharmaceutical inventions, the Supreme Court, in its 2013 ruling in Novartis AG v. Union of India, interpreted “efficacy” to mean “therapeutic efficacy.”

The Ischemix LLC Case: Background
Ischemix LLC filed an appeal against the rejection of its patent application (No. 9739/DELNP/2011) by the Indian Patent Office on the grounds of Section 3(d). The applicant argued that they had submitted robust data—spanning in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical trial results—along with expert opinions to demonstrate the enhanced therapeutic efficacy of the compound.

The Patent Office, however, rejected the application, noting that while comparative data had been submitted after the oral hearing, the data was not clearly explained or sufficiently correlated to therapeutic enhancement as claimed in the specification.

High Court’s Ruling: Key Takeaways
1. Therapeutic Efficacy as the Benchmark
The Delhi High Court reaffirmed the principle established in Novartis AG v. Union of India—that efficacy in the context of pharmaceutical patents must be understood as therapeutic efficacy. Mere improvements in physicochemical properties like stability or solubility are insufficient unless they translate to demonstrable therapeutic benefits.

2. Comparative Data: A Necessary Requirement
Drawing from its earlier ruling in DS Biopharma Limited v. Controller of Patents, the Court stressed that applicants must furnish comparative efficacy data to demonstrate enhancement over known substances. Importantly, this data should be provided in the form of structured comparative tables and supported by appropriate scientific evidence.

3. Admissibility of Post-Filing Data
The Court recognized the inherent delay in generating empirical efficacy data, especially in the pharmaceutical sector where clinical trials are time-intensive. It ruled that while some indication of efficacy should be included at the time of filing, post-filing data may be considered if it corroborates the technical effects disclosed in the original specification. This position is consistent with the Calcutta High Court’s judgment in Oyster Point Pharma Inc. v. Controller of Patents, which acknowledged the prolonged timeline for drug development.

4. Timing and Explanation of Additional Data
The Court made it clear that post-filing data must be submitted well before the final hearing at the Patent Office and should be clearly explained. Submitting complex efficacy data during written submissions post-hearing without oral explanation could render it ineffective, as the Controller may struggle to appreciate the technical details.

5. Requirement for Correlation with Specification
Referring to AstraZeneca AB v. Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., the Court ruled that post-filing data should only confirm technical effects already hinted at or described in the specification. It cannot be used to introduce an entirely new technical effect.

Court’s Direction in Ischemix Case
Recognizing the importance of the data but noting the lack of explanation linking the data to therapeutic efficacy, the Court directed Ischemix LLC to submit an explanatory note correlating the submitted evidence to enhanced efficacy. Upon the Patent Office’s consent, the Court remanded the application for re-examination, thereby allowing a fair opportunity for reconsideration.

Broader Implications for Patent Law
This judgment offers significant guidance to pharmaceutical companies and patent practitioners navigating Section 3(d). It strikes a delicate balance between encouraging genuine innovation and preventing the misuse of the patent system to monopolize marginal improvements. The judgment also reinforces procedural discipline, requiring that critical data be timely, complete, and clearly presented.

Conclusion
The Delhi High Court’s decision in Ischemix LLC v. The Controller of Patents builds upon the jurisprudence laid down in Novartis and contributes to a growing body of case law interpreting Section 3(d). As patent litigation continues to evolve in India’s dynamic pharmaceutical sector, such decisions will serve as important references for determining the scope of patentable subject matter and the treatment of post-filing evidence.

Legal experts expect that the continued engagement of the judiciary with Section 3(d) will bring greater predictability and transparency to India’s patent system, particularly for drug-related inventions.

India Breaks into Top Six Globally in 6G Patent Filings: MoS Telecom

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India has achieved a significant milestone in the global race for next-generation wireless technology by ranking among the top six nations in 6G patent filings. This advancement underscores the country’s growing influence in shaping the future of telecommunications.

Strategic Push for 6G Leadership
Under the ‘Bharat 6G Vision,’ India aims to become a leader in the design, development, and deployment of 6G technology by 2030. The government is actively supporting this initiative through various programs, including funding research and development, establishing testbeds, and fostering collaborations between academia and industry. These efforts are expected to contribute to India’s goal of securing a 10% share of global 6G patents and one-sixth of contributions to global standards within the next three years .

Terahertz Frequency Bands: The Heart of 6G Innovation
6G technology is set to revolutionize wireless communication by operating in terahertz (THz) frequency bands, specifically between 95 GHz and 3 THz. This spectrum allows for data rates up to 1 terabit per second, marking a hundredfold increase over 5G speeds. Such capabilities will enable applications like immersive extended reality, digital twins, and seamless integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks .

To facilitate research and development in these high-frequency bands, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended setting up experimental authorizations for operations in the THz spectrum. This move is expected to position India as a global hub for 6G R&D .

Collaborative Efforts and Future Outlook
India’s ascent in 6G patent filings is attributed to a combination of government initiatives, private sector investments, and academic collaborations. Telecom giants like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Tata Communications are investing heavily in 6G research, establishing research centers, and forming international partnerships to drive innovation .

Looking ahead, India is set to host the World Telecommunications Standardisation Assembly (WTSA) in Delhi from October 14 to 24, 2024.

Conclusion
India’s entry into the top six nations for 6G patent filings signifies a strategic leap towards becoming a global leader in next-generation wireless technology. With continued investment in research, infrastructure, and international collaboration, India is poised to play a pivotal role in defining the future of telecommunications.

Delhi High Court Grants Relief to Indian Businessman in ‘ELFY’ Trademark Dispute with Pakistani National

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In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has granted relief to an Indian businessman in a trademark dispute involving the mark ‘ELFY’ against Pakistani national Mohammed Younus Sheikh. The court’s decision underscores the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and upholding fair business practices.

Background of the Case

The dispute centers around the use of the ‘ELFY’ trademark, which the Indian businessman claims to have developed and used in commerce for several years. Mohammed Younus Sheikh, a Pakistani national, had claimed that his company had been using the ‘ELFY’ mark for industrial adhesives since 1981. Sheikh’s company had registered the mark in Pakistan and asserted that it had acquired a transborder reputation, particularly in India.

The Indian businessman contended that he had been using the ‘ELFY’ mark in India since 1988 and had built a significant reputation and goodwill associated with the mark. He argued that Sheikh’s adoption of the same mark in India was likely to cause confusion among consumers and harm his business interests.

Court’s Findings

The Delhi High Court examined the evidence presented by both parties, including the dates of adoption and use of the ‘ELFY’ mark, marketing materials, and consumer testimonials. The court found that the Indian businessman had established prior use of the mark in India and had built a recognizable brand associated with ‘ELFY.’

In contrast, the court noted that Mohammed Younus Sheikh had not provided sufficient evidence to demonstrate prior use or registration of the ‘ELFY’ mark in India. The court emphasized the principle of territoriality in trademark law, asserting that the rights to a trademark are generally confined to the jurisdiction where the mark is used and recognized.

Legal Implications

This ruling reinforces the importance of establishing and maintaining clear records of trademark use and registration. It also highlights the challenges businesses may face when operating in international markets, where the risk of trademark disputes can arise due to similarities in branding.

Legal experts suggest that businesses should conduct thorough trademark searches before adopting new marks and consider registering their trademarks in key markets to protect their brand identity and prevent potential conflicts.

Conclusion

The Delhi High Court’s decision serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in trademark law and the need for businesses to be vigilant in protecting their intellectual property. As global commerce continues to expand, understanding and navigating trademark rights across different jurisdictions will be crucial for businesses seeking to safeguard their brands.

Anthropic Faces Legal Scrutiny Over AI-Fabricated Citation in Copyright Lawsuit

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Anthropic, the AI company known for its chatbot Claude, is under legal scrutiny after an expert witness allegedly cited a fabricated academic article in a copyright infringement case. The lawsuit, filed by music publishers including Universal Music Group, Concord, and ABKCO, accuses Anthropic of using copyrighted song lyrics without permission to train Claude.

The Alleged Fabrication
During a recent court hearing, Matt Oppenheim, representing the plaintiffs, claimed that Olivia Chen, an Anthropic data scientist, cited a non-existent academic paper to support arguments about how often Claude reproduces copyrighted lyrics. The article was allegedly generated by Anthropic’s AI and falsely attributed to a reputable journal. Judge mentioned the incident as a “serious issue” and demanded a prompt response from Anthropic. However, she denied an immediate deposition of Chen.

Anthropic’s Response
Anthropic acknowledged the citation error but suggested it might relate to a different, legitimate article. The company has not provided further details on how the AI-generated citation occurred or what measures are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future.

Broader Legal Implications
This development adds to the mounting legal challenges faced by Anthropic and other AI companies over the use of copyrighted materials in training data. In a separate lawsuit, authors Andrea Bartz, Charles Graeber, and Kirk Wallace Johnson allege that Anthropic used pirated books, including their own works, to train Claude. The authors claim that Anthropic’s AI model profits from “strip-mining the human expression and ingenuity” behind their works.
Computerworld

The legal landscape is evolving as courts grapple with the intersection of AI technology and intellectual property rights. While AI companies argue that training models on existing content falls under “fair use,” copyright holders contend that their works are being exploited without permission or compensation.

Conclusion
The alleged AI-generated citation in the copyright lawsuit against Anthropic underscores the complexities and challenges of integrating AI into legal and creative domains. As the case progresses, it may set important precedents for how AI companies handle copyrighted materials and the ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated content.

Delhi High Court Affirms Mandatory Timelines Under Rule 100 of Trade Marks Rules 2017

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In the ruling, the Delhi High Court emphasized that timelines are mandatory and cannot be waived, even in exceptional circumstances.

Background of the Case
The case arose from a trademark opposition filed by Sun Pharma Laboratories Ltd. against Dabur India Ltd. Sun Pharma had submitted its evidence within the prescribed two-month period; however, there was a delay of three days in serving the evidence to Dabur. The Registrar of Trade Marks deemed the opposition abandoned due to this delay. Sun Pharma appealed the decision, arguing that the filing was timely, and the delay in service should not result in abandonment.

Court’s Analysis
The Delhi High Court examined the evolution of the Trade Marks Rules, noting that previous versions allowed for discretionary extensions of time. However, under the 2017 Rules, such discretion has been removed, indicating a legislative intent to enforce strict adherence to timelines. The Court referred to Rule 100, which specifies that evidence must be filed within two months from the date of service of the counter-statement.

Conclusion
The Delhi High Court’s ruling serves as a clear reminder to stakeholders in the trademark domain about the critical importance of adhering to statutory timelines. With the removal of discretionary powers to extend deadlines, parties must exercise due diligence to comply with all procedural requirements within the stipulated timeframes.

Legal professionals and businesses are advised to stay informed about the implications of this judgment and ensure that all actions in trademark opposition proceedings are completed within the prescribed timelines to safeguard their interests.

Metro Brands Gets Interim Relief from Bombay High Court in Trademark Dispute with MetBrands

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In a significant development in a closely watched intellectual property dispute, the Bombay High Court has granted interim relief to Metro Brands Ltd., a leading Indian footwear retailer, in its trademark infringement case against a startup operating under the name “MetBrands.”

On Monday, the court acknowledged Metro Brands’ longstanding presence in the Indian market and the strong consumer association with its brand name. Justice Manish Pitale, presiding over the matter, directed MetBrands to refrain from using the contested name or any deceptively similar mark until further orders.

Background of the Dispute

Metro Brands, incorporated in 1955, is a household name in Indian footwear retail with a wide footprint across premium malls and shopping destinations. The company claimed that MetBrands, a relatively new player in the fashion and lifestyle segment, was deliberately using a name strikingly similar to its own, thereby creating confusion in the minds of consumers and riding on the goodwill it has established over decades.

In its petition, Metro Brands argued that “MetBrands” not only shares phonetic and visual similarities but also overlaps in the domain of lifestyle and fashion retail, increasing the likelihood of trademark dilution and brand misappropriation.

Court’s Observations

The Bombay High Court, while hearing the interim plea, noted the potential harm to Metro Brands’ reputation and consumer trust due to the similarity between the two names. The court stated that prima facie, the use of “MetBrands” could amount to infringement under the Trade Marks Act, 1999.

Justice Pitale observed: “Given the longevity and recognition enjoyed by the plaintiff [Metro Brands] in the Indian market, and the phonetic resemblance of the defendant’s brand name, a case for interim injunction is clearly made out.”

Response from MetBrands

MetBrands, in its defense, claimed that the brand name was independently conceived and not intended to mislead consumers. The company also emphasized its limited operational scale compared to Metro Brands, suggesting there was no deliberate attempt to confuse or exploit.

Despite this, the court ruled in favor of granting temporary relief to Metro Brands, citing the need to prevent potential consumer deception and preserve brand integrity.

Legal and Industry Implications

Legal experts see the decision as a strong reinforcement of the importance of brand protection and the judiciary’s proactive stance in safeguarding intellectual property rights. “This interim order sends a clear message to emerging businesses about the necessity of conducting thorough trademark checks and building brand identities distinct from existing market players,” said Renu Arora, a Mumbai-based IP attorney.

What’s Next

The matter is scheduled for further hearing in July 2025, when the court will examine the merits of the case in greater detail. Until then, MetBrands has been restrained from using the disputed mark in any commercial context, including advertising, packaging, and digital presence.

For now, the order comes as a strategic win for Metro Brands, reinforcing its hold over its brand identity while the legal proceedings continue.