The Delhi High Court has issued a permanent injunction in favor of the French luxury brand Louis Vuitton Malletier, restraining shop owners in Karol Bagh from infringing its trademarks. The ruling comes after Louis Vuitton filed a lawsuit seeking legal protection against unauthorized use of its brand elements.
Louis Vuitton's Legal Action Against Infringement
Louis Vuitton Malletier (plaintiff) initiated the legal proceedings to obtain a permanent injunction against the infringement of its well-known trademarks. The lawsuit focused on the unauthorized use of:
- The 'LOUIS VUITTON' trademark
- The iconic 'LV' logo
- The 'Toile monogram pattern'
- The 'Damier pattern'
- The 'LV Flower patterns' and other registered trademarks
Read also: Delhi High Court Ruling on Time-Bound Adjudication Under Section 11A of the Central Excise Act
The company emphasized its international reputation for exclusivity and high-end fashion, asserting that the misuse of its trademarks harmed its goodwill and brand image in India.
Unauthorized Sales in Karol Bagh
The plaintiff identified defendant nos. 7 and 8 as shop/stall owners operating in Gaffar Market, Karol Bagh. These businesses were found selling counterfeit wallets, handbags, purses, belts, and other goods bearing Louis Vuitton’s trademarks.
Louis Vuitton argued that these unauthorized sellers were leveraging its globally recognized goodwill to mislead customers and profit from its reputation. It contended that such activities not only misrepresented the brand but also deceived customers into believing they were purchasing genuine products.
Court's Observations and Findings
On August 1, 2017, the Delhi High Court passed an ex-parte ad interim injunction, preventing the defendants from manufacturing, selling, or advertising products featuring Louis Vuitton trademarks or deceptively similar marks.
Read also: Delhi High Court Permits MP Engineer Rashid to Attend Parliament "In-Custody"
Justice Mini Pushkarna observed that:
- The defendants failed to submit any written statements in response to the lawsuit.
- The case proceeded through a summary judgment based on the available evidence.
- A Local Commissioner’s report confirmed the presence of counterfeit Louis Vuitton products such as handbags, sunglasses, belts, and trolley bags in the defendant’s shops.
"Through extensive global use and recognition, Louis Vuitton has acquired the status of a well-known mark worldwide," the Court noted.
The Court further observed that the unauthorized use of Louis Vuitton's trademarks would likely confuse consumers regarding the source and authenticity of the products.
Judgment and Compensation Ordered
The Delhi High Court concluded that the defendants had acted with mala fide intent, selling counterfeit Louis Vuitton products purely to exploit the brand's goodwill.
As a result:
- A permanent injunction was granted, restraining the defendants from infringing Louis Vuitton's trademarks.
- Defendant no. 7 was directed to pay Rs. 20,000 as damages.
- Defendant no. 8 was ordered to pay Rs. 22,000 to Louis Vuitton.
Impact of the Judgment
This ruling reinforces the protection of intellectual property rights in India and sets a strong precedent against counterfeit sales. Luxury brands operating in the country can rely on legal safeguards to prevent unauthorized use of their trademarks.
Read also: Delhi High Court Rules on Anti-Dumping Duties: Judicial Intervention Limited Due to Time Constraints
By upholding Louis Vuitton’s claims, the Delhi High Court reaffirmed the importance of preserving brand exclusivity and consumer trust.
Case title: Louis Vuitton Malletier vs. Raj Belts & Ors. (CS(COMM) 502/2017)
