Berger Paints India Ltd. v. JSW Paints Pvt. Ltd.

APOT No. 58 of 2024 (CS No. 64 of 2020)

The Calcutta High Court addressed an appeal concerning the use of the word 'silk' in relation to paint products. While acknowledging that 'silk' can be used descriptively to denote a specific product finish, the court cautioned against its misuse as a trademark that could lead to consumer confusion (passing off). The court allowed JSW Paints Pvt. Ltd. to continue using 'silk' on their product tumblers, provided they strictly limit its use only to products with a silk finish and clearly state this description in advertisements. The core proprietary rights of Berger Paints India Ltd. over the term remain undecided pending trial.

Jurisdiction
India
Court
Calcutta High Court
Case Number
APOT No. 58 of 2024 (CS No. 64 of 2020)
Judge(s)
I. P. Mukerji

Practitioner Note

This case demonstrates the evidentiary and procedural standards applied in trademark matters before Calcutta High Court. Understanding the court's reasoning in Berger Paints India Ltd. vs JSW Paints Pvt. Ltd. is valuable context for structuring arguments or assessing risk in similar proceedings.

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