Ratan Tata is a known figure, his trademark must be protected: Delhi High Court

The Delhi high court ruled last week that late industrialist Ratan Tata, who was at the helm of Tata Group companies for decades, is a well-known figure and his trademark must be protected. The court was hearing a petition filed by Tata Group and Sir Ratan Tata Trust and observed that it is “manifest that the name of late Shri Ratan Tata is a well-known personal name/mark, which needs to be protected from any unauthorised use by any third party”.

Tata Group and the trust have also sought damages worth over ₹2 crore for allegedly causing harm to their reputation and goodwill. According to the lawsuit, Srivastava chose to continue advertising and publishing an unauthorised event and award despite being notified.