Aadrikaa Legal Services (ALS)- Law I Litigation I Arbitration
Date: 10.09.2026
Delhi HC Ruled βONE FOR ALLβ Trademark Registrable for Books; Common Words Can Be Distinctive When Unconnected with the Goods
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Delhi High Court has ruled in favour of Oswaal Books and Learnings Private Limited, holding that its mark βONE FOR ALLβ is capable of registration for educational books and allied publications under Class 16 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
A Division Bench comprising Justice C. Hari Shankar and Justice Om Prakash Shukla set aside the orders of both the Registrar of Trade Marks and the Single Judge which had refused registration on the ground that βONE FOR ALLβ was a common, laudatory and non-distinctive expression.
Trademark Registry Had Refused βONE FOR ALLβ
Oswaal Books, engaged in the publication and sale of educational books and academic material, claimed to have adopted the mark βONE FOR ALLβ from 20 August 2020 for its educational publications.
It filed Trade Mark Application No. 4711190 on 20 October 2020 for registration in Class 16. The Registry raised an objection under Section 9(1)(a) of the Trade Marks Act, requiring Oswaal to establish that the mark was capable of distinguishing its goods from those of other traders.
The application was ultimately refused on 14 December 2023 on the ground that βONE FOR ALLβ was a common and non-distinctive expression and that Oswaal had failed to establish acquired distinctiveness or secondary meaning.
Single Judge Also Found the Mark Descriptive
Oswaal challenged the Registry’s decision before the Delhi High Court under Section 91 of the Trade Marks Act.
The Single Judge, however, upheld the refusal, reasoning that βONE FOR ALLβ was a common laudatory phrase suggesting that Oswaal’s books constituted a universal or βone-stopβ solution for students across different examinations and boards.
The Single Judge further found that the evidence produced by Oswaal largely related to its house mark βOSWAAL BOOKSβ, rather than establishing βONE FOR ALLβ as an independent source identifier.
Oswaal then preferred the Letters Patent Appeal before the Division Bench.
Distinctiveness Must Be Examined in Context of the Goods
The Division Bench clarified an important principle of trademark law: a mark cannot be declared non-distinctive merely because it consists of ordinary or commonly used words.
Distinctiveness has to be assessed in relation to the particular goods or services for which registration is sought.
The Court relied on its earlier decision in Leayan Global Pvt. Ltd. v. Bata India Ltd. and reiterated that even a common dictionary word can acquire distinctive character when used for goods or services with which the expression has no immediate connection.
The test, therefore, is not simply whether the words are commonly used in the English language, but whether consumers would immediately associate those words with the nature, quality, characteristics or purpose of the relevant goods.
Slogans and Taglines Can Function as Trademarks
The judgment also contains an important observation regarding the modern commercial significance of slogans and taglines.
The High Court held that slogans are capable of constituting trademarks within the meaning of Sections 2(m) and 2(zb) of the Trade Marks Act where they are capable of distinguishing one person’s goods from those of another.
The Court particularly noted the increasing importance of slogans in the modern digital marketplace. With the rapid expansion of digital marketing, slogans and taglines can perform a source-identifying function and may, in some cases, become even more readily recognised than the brand or trade name itself.
This observation could have wider significance for businesses seeking trademark protection for advertising slogans and brand taglines.
βONE FOR ALLβ Has No Immediate Connection With Books: Delhi High Court
The Division Bench expressly disagreed with the Single Judge’s conclusion that βONE FOR ALLβ was descriptive of Oswaal’s books.
According to the Court, the expression cannot naturally or immediately be associated with books or other goods falling within Class 16.
The phrase ordinarily conveys the idea of a single solution capable of replacing multiple alternatives. That meaning, the Court found, does not directly describe books, printed material or other Class 16 goods.
The Court further observed that βONE FOR ALLβ was not shown to be a common expression used in Class 16 to describe the relevant goods.
No Identical or Deceptively Similar Commercial Use Shown
Another factor weighing in Oswaal’s favour was the absence of evidence showing commercial use of an identical or deceptively similar mark in Class 16.
The Court noted that the Registrar had failed to demonstrate such use and that the Examination Report itself contained no objection under Section 11 of the Trade Marks Act, which deals with relative grounds for refusal based, among other things, on conflict with earlier trademarks.
βONE FOR ALLβ Is Suggestive, Not Descriptive
The Division Bench ultimately held that the mark did not evoke an immediate connection with books.
βONE FOR ALLβ could communicate the broader idea of universality or comprehensive coverage, but it did not directly and unequivocally describe books.
The Court therefore concluded that the expression was, at the highest, suggestive rather than descriptive.
Even if Oswaal intended to project its publications as a universal solution for different academic needs, some degree of mental process was still necessary to connect the phrase with educational books. This was insufficient to render the mark descriptive.
Accordingly, the Court held that βONE FOR ALLβ satisfies the statutory requirement of distinctiveness and is capable of registration.
High Court Sets Aside Refusal of Trademark
The Division Bench consequently set aside both the Single Judge’s judgment and the Registrar of Trade Marks’ refusal order.
Oswaal’s trademark application was restored to the stage at which it stood when the refusal order was passed, with directions that the application proceed further from that stage.
The appeal was accordingly allowed with no order as to costs.
Key Legal Takeaway
The judgment reinforces that the use of common English words does not automatically make a trademark non-distinctive. The correct inquiry under Section 9(1)(a) is whether the mark, considered as a whole and in the context of the goods or services concerned, is capable of distinguishing one trader’s goods from another’s.
It also draws an important distinction between descriptive and suggestive marks. Where the connection between a phrase and the goods is not immediate and requires imagination or mental association, the mark may merely be suggestiveβand therefore capable of registration.
The ruling is particularly relevant to businesses using slogans, taglines and common-word combinations as sub-brands, especially in digital marketing, publishing and consumer-facing industries.
Aadrikaa Legal Services is a trusted legal and regulatory support partner providing end-to-end legal solutions to law firms, corporate organizations, and businesses across India. We specialize in paralegal services, litigation support, tax and regulatory matters, delivering reliable, efficient, and result-oriented legal assistance.
Our services include comprehensive paralegal support, drafting and documentation, legal research, case management, litigation handling, and representation support across various judicial and quasi-judicial forums. We also assist in direct and indirect tax matters, customs, GST, corporate regulatory compliance, and legal advisory.
Aadrikaa Legal Services (ALS)- Law I Litigation I Arbitration
Date: 09.09.2026
Delhi High Court Sets Aside Trademark Refusal: Composite Marks Containing Geographical Names Are Not Automatically Barred from Registration
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Delhi High Court in Abu Dhabi Global Market v. Registrar of Trade Marks, Delhi delivered an important ruling on the registrability of composite trademarks containing geographical names, while also strongly criticising the manner in which the Trade Marks Registry had dealt with the applicantβs response to the examination objections.
Justice C. Hari Shankar set aside the order of the Assistant Registrar refusing registration of the appellantβs device mark and remanded the application to the Trade Marks Registry for advertisement and further proceedings in accordance with law.
The judgment is especially significant for three propositions: a trademark need not be βcoinedβ or βinventiveβ to qualify for registration; evidence of prior use is not necessary to establish distinctiveness where an application is filed on a βproposed to be usedβ basis; and Section 9(1)(b) does not automatically prohibit registration of a composite mark merely because one element of the mark contains a geographical name.
Background of the Case
Abu Dhabi Global Market had filed Application No. 3184380 seeking registration of a composite device mark incorporating its logo together with the words βABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKET.β
The Assistant Registrar of Trade Marks rejected the application by order dated 9 December 2022.
The refusal was broadly based on three objections:
the mark was allegedly neither βcoinedβ nor βinventedβ;
the applicant had not established distinctiveness by filing an affidavit evidencing use of the mark; and
βAbu Dhabiβ was a geographical name and the mark as a whole was allegedly non-distinctive and incapable of monopolisation.
The appellant challenged these findings before the Delhi High Court.
Appellantβs Case
Counsel for Abu Dhabi Global Market argued that none of the grounds relied upon by the Trade Marks Registry could survive either on facts or in law.
One important submission was that the appellantβs logo already stood registered in its favour. According to the appellant, this demonstrated that the Registry had itself recognised the distinctiveness of the device element.
The appellant argued that the mark could not suddenly lose its distinctiveness merely because the words βABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKETβ were placed beneath the logo.
The appellant also explained that the trading name βAbu Dhabi Global Marketβ was not an arbitrary descriptive expression. It had been adopted under Federal Decree No. 15 of 2013 dated 11 February 2013, issued in the name of the President of the United Arab Emirates, which provided for establishment of a financial free zone under the name βAbu Dhabi Global Market.β
Can a Trademark Be Refused Merely Because It Is Not βCoinedβ or βInventiveβ?
The Delhi High Court emphatically answered this question in the negative.
The Court observed that the grounds for refusal of registration are contained in Sections 9 and 11 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, and these provisions are comprehensive in that regard.
The Court found no statutory requirement that a trademark must necessarily be βcoinedβ or βinventiveβ in order to qualify for registration.
Justice Hari Shankar drew an important conceptual distinction:
Distinctiveness is required for trademark registration; inventiveness is not.
Inventiveness is a concept associated with patent and design law, whereas trademark law focuses upon whether a mark is capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one person from those of another.
The Court therefore held that the Assistant Registrar could not lawfully refuse registration simply because the mark was allegedly not coined or inventive.
Trademark Law Is About Distinctiveness, Not Inventiveness
This aspect of the judgment is commercially important.
A business does not need to create a completely new word in order to obtain trademark protection.
Many trademarks are made up of ordinary words, surnames, geographical references, symbols, logos or combinations of these elements.
What matters under Section 9(1)(a) is whether the mark is capable of functioning as a badge of origin β that is, whether it can distinguish the applicantβs goods or services from those of other traders.
The Court therefore rejected an approach that imported patent-law concepts of novelty or inventiveness into trademark examination.
Trade Name Was Backed by UAE Federal Decree
The Court additionally found that even factually the objection regarding the name being neither coined nor invented was unjustified.
The appellant had specifically explained that the name βABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKETβ had been adopted pursuant to Federal Decree No. 15/2013.
The Court noted that this explanation had already been placed before the Trade Marks Registry in the appellantβs reply to the First Examination Report, but the impugned order made no reference to it.
This omission later became part of the Courtβs wider criticism concerning non-application of mind by the Registry.
No Affidavit of Use Required for a βProposed to Be Usedβ Application
The second major ground of refusal was the absence of an affidavit establishing use of the mark.
The Delhi High Court rejected this objection as well.
The appellantβs application had been filed on a βproposed to be usedβ basis.
The Court observed that there was no lawful basis for linking distinctiveness with evidence of actual prior use in such circumstances.
Justice Hari Shankar stated that the Assistant Registrar had confused distinctiveness with actual user of the mark.
The Court went further and explained that if evidence of use were always required to establish distinctiveness, it would become impossible to register any trademark on a proposed-to-be-used basis.
Such an interpretation would directly conflict with the statutory scheme.
What Does βDistinctivenessβ Mean Under Section 9(1)(a)?
Section 9(1)(a) concerns marks which are devoid of distinctive character, namely marks that are not capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one person from those of another.
The High Court stressed that the proper legal inquiry is therefore:
Is the mark capable of distinguishing the applicantβs goods or services from those of another person?
It is not enough merely to say that a mark has not yet been used.
The Court found that the impugned order contained no finding that the Abu Dhabi Global Market mark was actually incapable of performing this distinguishing function.
Existing Registration of the Logo Was Relevant
The Court also noted that the logo forming part of the composite mark already stood registered in favour of the appellant.
This meant that the Registry had already recognised the distinctiveness of the logo.
The Court accepted the appellantβs contention that adding the words βABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKETβ beneath an already distinctive logo did not, by itself, destroy the distinctiveness of the mark.
Geographical Names and Section 9(1)(b)
The third major issue concerned the presence of the words βAbu Dhabiβ.
The Trade Marks Registry had treated the expression as problematic because Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and therefore a geographical name.
The Delhi High Court closely analysed Section 9(1)(b) of the Trade Marks Act.
The provision bars registration of marks which consist exclusively of signs or indications which may serve in trade to designate, among other things, the geographical origin of goods or services.
The word βexclusivelyβ became decisive.
Composite Marks Are Outside the Automatic Bar of Section 9(1)(b)
The Court held that Section 9(1)(b) does not automatically prohibit every mark containing a geographical reference.
The statutory prohibition applies where the mark consists exclusively of matter indicating geographical origin.
A composite mark incorporating other elements stands on a different footing.
The Court held that:
Composite marks are ipso facto outside the scope of Section 9(1)(b) merely on the basis that one component may refer to geographical origin.
In the present case, the mark was not simply the geographical expression βAbu Dhabi.β
It consisted of the words βABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKETβ together with a distinctive logo.
The Court therefore concluded that Section 9(1)(b), by its very terms, could not automatically apply to such a composite mark.
βDominant Partβ Test Has No Role Under Section 9(1)(b)
The Registrar attempted to argue that βAbu Dhabiβ was the dominant part of the mark, and therefore the Section 9 objection should still survive.
The Court rejected this argument in categorical terms.
Justice Hari Shankar held that the βdominant partβ principle is alien to Section 9(1)(b).
That doctrine may be relevant in infringement litigation when courts compare competing trademarks and determine whether the dominant components are deceptively similar.
But Section 9(1)(b) contains the statutory word βexclusively.β
Accordingly, the Court held that the dominant-part doctrine could not override the express statutory requirement of exclusivity.
This is one of the strongest doctrinal aspects of the ruling.
Registration Proceedings and Infringement Proceedings Are Different
The judgment usefully distinguishes between two trademark-law exercises:
Registration analysis under Section 9, and infringement analysis involving comparison of rival marks.
In infringement cases, courts may examine dominant or essential features of rival marks.
But while applying Section 9(1)(b), the focus is on whether the mark as a whole consists exclusively of prohibited descriptive or geographical matter.
The two tests cannot be indiscriminately mixed.
Court Criticises the Trade Marks Registry for Non-Application of Mind
The judgment also contains unusually strong observations regarding administrative decision-making by the Trade Marks Registry.
The Court first referred to one sentence in the refusal order stating:
βThe attorney failed to establish the Identity of the mark in applied class.β
Justice Hari Shankar observed that the sentence was incomprehensible and that even counsel appearing for the Registrar was unable to explain what it meant.
The Court therefore held that an incomprehensible sentence could obviously not constitute a lawful ground for rejecting a trademark application.
Detailed FER Replies Cannot Simply Be Ignored
The Court noted that after issuance of the First Examination Report dated 16 September 2016, the appellant had filed an extensive response consisting of 11 pages and 23 paragraphs, which together with accompanying documents ran into more than 100 pages.
Yet the impugned order appeared not to have considered that response meaningfully.
Justice Hari Shankar strongly observed that applicants do not file detailed responses to examination reports βfor the sake of fun.β
The Court stated that the least expected from the quasi-judicial officer deciding the application is to read the response and apply their mind to the submissions.
Trade Marks Registrar Exercises Quasi-Judicial Functions
The Court characterised the manner in which the application had been decided as a complete abdication of quasi-judicial functions vested under the Trade Marks Act and Rules.
It further observed that the impugned decision effectively reduced Section 18(5) of the Trade Marks Act to redundancy.
This aspect of the judgment has significance beyond the particular mark involved.
Trademark examination and hearing orders must be:
reasoned;
intelligible;
responsive to the applicantβs submissions; and
based on the statutory grounds actually available under the Trade Marks Act.
A formulaic refusal unsupported by reasoning is vulnerable to challenge.
Delhi High Courtβs Final Order
The High Court ultimately held that none of the grounds relied upon by the Assistant Registrar could survive.
The order dated 9 December 2022 was consequently quashed and set aside.
The Court remanded Application No. 3184380 dated 11 February 2016 to the Trade Marks Registry with a direction that it proceed to advertisement and subsequent proceedings in accordance with the Trade Marks Act and the Trade Marks Rules.
Importantly, therefore, the High Court did not itself finally register the mark. It removed the unlawful refusal and directed the application to proceed through the statutory registration process.
Key Legal Principles Emerging from the Judgment
Issue
Delhi High Courtβs Finding
Must a trademark be βcoinedβ?
No
Must a trademark be βinventiveβ?
No
Relevant trademark requirement
Distinctiveness, not inventiveness
Proposed-to-be-used application
Prior-use affidavit is not necessary merely to establish distinctiveness
Meaning of distinctiveness
Capability of distinguishing one personβs goods/services from anotherβs
Geographical name in a mark
Does not automatically bar registration
Section 9(1)(b)
Applies to marks consisting exclusively of prohibited descriptive/geographical indications
Composite geographical mark
Not automatically barred merely because one part is geographic
Dominant-part doctrine
Not applicable to overcome the word βexclusivelyβ in Section 9(1)(b)
Registryβs duty
Must meaningfully consider replies and give reasoned decisions
Final result
Refusal quashed; application remanded for advertisement and further proceedings
Why This Judgment Matters for Trademark Applicants
The ruling is particularly useful for businesses seeking protection for marks containing:
city names;
country names;
regional names;
geographical references;
institutional names; or
combinations of geographical words with logos or other distinctive elements.
The mere presence of a geographical expression does not necessarily make a mark unregistrable.
The correct analysis must examine the mark as a whole and the exact language of Section 9(1)(b).
Importance for International Businesses Entering India
The judgment is also relevant for foreign governmental bodies, free zones, financial centres, international institutions and multinational enterprises seeking trademark protection in India.
Names of foreign institutions frequently incorporate geographical identifiers.
If every composite institutional mark containing a city or country name were automatically rejected, many established global trade names would face unnecessary barriers in India.
The decision confirms that Indian trademark law requires a more nuanced statutory analysis.
Important Distinction: βAbu Dhabiβ Versus βAbu Dhabi Global Market + Logoβ
The judgment can be understood through a simple distinction.
A mark consisting solely of a geographical expression such as βABU DHABIβ may raise a different Section 9(1)(b) analysis.
But the application before the Court was for a composite device mark, consisting of:
a logo + the words βABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKET.β
The Court was therefore required to examine the entire composite mark rather than isolate one component and treat that isolated component as determinative.
This is why the statutory word βexclusivelyβ assumed such importance.
Practical Takeaways for Trademark Practitioners
For trademark attorneys and applicants, the judgment offers several useful lessons.
When responding to an examination report involving Section 9 objections, the response should clearly demonstrate:
the composite nature of the mark;
the distinctive graphical or device elements;
whether any existing registrations already recognise distinctiveness;
the factual origin of the trade name;
whether the application is on a proposed-to-be-used basis;
why proof of prior use is therefore unnecessary;
why the mark does not consist exclusively of geographical or descriptive matter; and
why the mark as a whole is capable of distinguishing the applicantβs goods or services.
The decision also provides a strong basis for challenging refusals that mechanically invoke Section 9 without examining the statutory wording.
Administrative Law Significance of the Judgment
Beyond trademark law, the decision reflects fundamental principles of administrative and quasi-judicial decision-making.
Where a statutory authority receives a detailed reply, it must meaningfully engage with the response.
A decision should demonstrate:
application of mind, intelligible reasoning, consideration of relevant material and reliance upon legally recognised grounds.
An authority cannot simply reproduce objections from an examination report and reject an application without addressing the applicantβs answers.
This aspect of the judgment strengthens procedural fairness in intellectual-property administration.
Broader Impact on Section 9 Jurisprudence
The ruling provides useful clarity on the relationship between Sections 9(1)(a) and 9(1)(b).
Section 9(1)(a) deals with lack of distinctive character.
Section 9(1)(b) addresses marks consisting exclusively of descriptive or geographical indications.
The two provisions should not be conflated.
A geographical component does not automatically establish lack of distinctiveness, particularly where the mark contains other distinctive features.
Similarly, absence of prior use does not establish non-distinctiveness in a proposed-to-be-used application.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Courtβs judgment in Abu Dhabi Global Market v. Registrar of Trade Marks, Delhi is an important authority on the registration of composite trademarks under the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
The Court clarified that trademarks need not be coined or inventive, that actual use is not a prerequisite to distinctiveness in a proposed-to-be-used application, and that a composite mark containing a geographical name is not automatically barred under Section 9(1)(b).
Aadrikaa Legal Services is a trusted legal and regulatory support partner providing end-to-end legal solutions to law firms, corporate organizations, and businesses across India. We specialize in paralegal services, litigation support, tax and regulatory matters, delivering reliable, efficient, and result-oriented legal assistance.
Our services include comprehensive paralegal support, drafting and documentation, legal research, case management, litigation handling, and representation support across various judicial and quasi-judicial forums. We also assist in direct and indirect tax matters, customs, GST, corporate regulatory compliance, and legal advisory.
Aadrikaa Legal Services (ALS)- Law I Litigation I Arbitration
Date: 09.09.2026
Delhi High Court Grants Bail in NDPS Case After Five Yearsβ Custody
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Delhi High Court in Mahender Pal v. State granted regular bail to an accused who had remained in judicial custody for more than five years in a case registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (βNDPS Actβ).
The Court held that although the prosecution sought to attribute an aggregate recovery of 230 kg of poppy straw to all three accused, the recovery specifically attributable to the applicant was 40 kg of poppy straw, which constituted an intermediate quantity. Consequently, the stringent bail conditions under Section 37 of the NDPS Act were held not to apply to him.
The judgment is significant because it addresses three recurring issues in NDPS bail jurisprudence: individual attribution of contraband, applicability of Section 37 based on quantity, and prolonged incarceration as a constitutional consideration under Article 21.
Background of the Case
The case arose out of FIR No. 628/2017, registered at Police Station Samaypur Badli under Sections 15, 29, 61 and 85 of the NDPS Act.
The bail application was filed under Section 439 of the Code of Criminal Procedure seeking regular bail. The matter was heard by Justice Amit Sharma of the Delhi High Court. The judgment was reserved on 11 May 2023 and pronounced on 18 May 2023.
According to the prosecution, police received secret information that the applicant, Mahender Pal, was allegedly involved in transporting poppy straw in his auto-rickshaw. A raiding team was constituted, and the applicant was allegedly followed to a godown.
The prosecution claimed that the applicant was seen loading a carton into the auto-rickshaw with the assistance of another person. A third individual was also allegedly present inside the godown.
Recovery Alleged by the Prosecution
Upon search of the applicantβs auto-rickshaw, the police allegedly recovered 40 kg of poppy straw contained in packets.
Thereafter, the godown was searched and another 190 kg of poppy straw was allegedly recovered.
Accordingly, the prosecution treated the total recovery as 230 kg and sought to attribute the entire quantity jointly to the accused persons.
The prosecution further relied upon the FSL report, which stated that the seized exhibits contained Morphine, Codeine, Thebaine, Papaverine and Narcotine β constituents of poppy straw.
Charges under Sections 15(c) and 29 of the NDPS Act had been framed against the applicant.
Applicantβs Case: Only 40 Kg Was Recovered from Him
The principal contention advanced on behalf of the applicant was that the recovery directly attributable to him was only 40 kg of poppy straw.
His counsel argued that this was an intermediate quantity, rather than a commercial quantity.
The applicant also relied heavily on the fact that he had remained in custody for over five years and that the trial had not concluded. It was further pointed out that he had been granted interim bail on several occasions and had surrendered each time without misusing the liberty granted to him.
The applicant was stated to be an auto-rickshaw driver with a family dependent on him.
Stateβs Argument: Commercial Quantity and Section 37 Should Apply
The State opposed the bail application.
It argued that charges had been framed under Sections 15(c) and 29 of the NDPS Act and that, because the prosecution case concerned commercial quantity, Section 37 of the NDPS Act would apply.
The State also submitted that only four prosecution witnesses remained to be examined and, therefore, the trial would conclude shortly.
The Court also noted that at the stage of framing of charge there had been a concession on behalf of the applicant regarding framing of charges under Sections 15(c)/29, and that the revision petition against the charge order had later been withdrawn.
Crucial Finding: Recovery from Applicant Was 40 Kg, Not 230 Kg
The most important factual aspect of the judgment is the distinction drawn by the Court between:
the recovery from the applicantβs auto-rickshaw; and the recovery from the godown.
The FIR recorded that 40 kg of poppy straw was recovered from the auto-rickshaw of the applicant.
The additional 190 kg was recovered from the godown and was stated by the prosecution itself to have been in the possession of the other accused persons, namely Bahadur Singh and Prempal.
The Court specifically referred to the prosecutionβs own status report, which stated that the 190 kg recovered from the godown was in the possession of Bahadur Singh and Prempal.
This factual segregation became decisive in assessing whether the stringent conditions of Section 37 could be invoked against Mahender Pal.
Section 37 of the NDPS Act: Why It Matters
Section 37 imposes stringent conditions for the grant of bail in certain NDPS cases involving, among other things, commercial quantity.
In such cases, bail ordinarily cannot be granted unless the Court is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing that:
the accused is not guilty of the alleged offence; and
the accused is not likely to commit an offence while on bail.
These requirements make bail substantially more difficult in commercial quantity cases.
However, the Delhi High Court held that the recovery qua the applicant was only 40 kg of poppy straw, which was an intermediate quantity and punishable with imprisonment up to ten years.
Accordingly, the Court held that Section 37 of the NDPS Act was not attracted qua the applicant.
Prolonged Incarceration and Article 21
The second major aspect of the judgment was prolonged judicial custody.
The applicant had already spent more than five years in custody.
The Court examined prior decisions emphasising that, even in serious NDPS cases, prolonged detention without a timely conclusion of trial engages the fundamental right to personal liberty and speedy trial under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The Court relied upon Anil Kumar v. Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and related authorities to reiterate that prolonged deprivation of liberty without the assurance of speedy trial runs contrary to constitutional principles.
The judgment reproduced the principle that fair, just and reasonable procedure is implicit in Article 21 and that an accused has a constitutional right to be tried speedily.
Reliance on Supreme Court Legal Aid Committee Case
The Delhi High Court referred to the principles laid down in Supreme Court Legal Aid Committee (Representing Undertrial Prisoners) v. Union of India.
That line of authority recognises that undertrials cannot be incarcerated indefinitely merely because they are charged under stringent statutes.
The Court also referred to a coordinate Bench decision in Sarvan Kumar v. State (NCT of Delhi), where it had been observed that the rigours of Section 37 would not necessarily stand in the way where an undertrial had remained in custody for a prolonged period.
Reliance on Union of India v. K.A. Najeeb
The Delhi High Court further relied upon the Supreme Courtβs decision in Union of India v. K.A. Najeeb, (2021) 3 SCC 713.
In K.A. Najeeb, the Supreme Court had held that statutory restrictions on bail do not completely extinguish the power of constitutional courts to protect fundamental rights.
The Court noted the principle that where a timely trial is not reasonably possible and an accused has already undergone substantial incarceration, courts may be constitutionally required to consider release on bail.
The cited passage further explains that the rigours of statutory bail restrictions may βmelt downβ where there is no likelihood of the trial concluding within a reasonable period and the incarceration already undergone becomes substantial in relation to the prescribed sentence.
Conduct During Interim Bail Also Favoured the Applicant
The Court also took note of the applicantβs conduct.
The nominal roll reflected that he had been released on interim bail on multiple occasions and had not misused the liberty.
This factor helped demonstrate that there was no adverse conduct during temporary release that would justify continued incarceration solely on apprehension of misuse.
Delhi High Courtβs Final Reasoning
The Court ultimately rested its bail decision on a combination of circumstances:
the recovery directly attributable to the applicant was 40 kg;
this was an intermediate quantity;
Section 37 of the NDPS Act therefore did not apply qua the applicant;
he had already undergone more than five years of judicial custody;
the constitutional right to speedy trial and personal liberty had to be taken into account; and
his conduct during previous interim bail periods had been satisfactory.
The Court therefore allowed the bail application.
Bail Conditions Imposed by the Court
The applicant was directed to furnish:
a personal bond of βΉ50,000 along with one surety of the like amount.
The Court also imposed conditions requiring him to inform the Investigating Officer of any change of address, not to leave India without prior permission of the Trial Court, keep his mobile numbers operational, and refrain from tampering with evidence or influencing witnesses.
The Court further directed that bail would stand cancelled if it was established that the applicant had committed similar offences or attempted to interfere with the evidence.
No Opinion on Merits of the Trial
Importantly, the Delhi High Court clarified that nothing stated in the bail judgment should be treated as an expression on the merits of the pending criminal case.
The trial court therefore remained free to adjudicate the evidence independently.
Key Legal Principles Emerging from the Judgment
Issue
Delhi High Courtβs Finding
Recovery from applicant
40 kg of poppy straw
Recovery from godown
190 kg
Total prosecution recovery
230 kg
Quantity attributable to applicant for bail analysis
40 kg
Nature of quantity
Intermediate quantity
Section 37 NDPS Act
Not attracted qua the applicant
Custody undergone
More than five years
Interim bail conduct
Liberty not misused
Constitutional consideration
Article 21 right to personal liberty and speedy trial
Bail amount
βΉ50,000 personal bond + one surety of like amount
Result
Regular bail granted
Why This Judgment Is Important for NDPS Bail Jurisprudence
This decision is particularly important because it highlights that quantity attribution cannot be applied mechanically.
Where drugs are recovered from different locations and from different accused, courts must examine who was actually in possession of what quantity before invoking the consequences associated with commercial quantity.
The mere fact that a common seizure memo exists does not automatically answer the question of individual possession.
In this case, the prosecutionβs own status report distinguished between the 40 kg found in the applicantβs auto-rickshaw and the 190 kg recovered from the godown.
That distinction ultimately influenced whether Section 37 applied.
Importance of Individual Attribution in Joint NDPS Cases
NDPS prosecutions frequently involve multiple accused and recoveries from different vehicles, premises or persons.
A central issue in such cases is whether the entire recovery can be attributed collectively to every accused through allegations of conspiracy under Section 29, or whether the individual physical recovery must be separately examined at the bail stage.
The Mahender Pal judgment demonstrates that courts may closely examine the prosecution record itself to determine what quantity is specifically attributable to an applicant.
This can be crucial because the classification between small, intermediate and commercial quantity directly affects the statutory bail regime.
Prolonged Custody Cannot Become Pre-Trial Punishment
The judgment also reinforces another important principle: pre-trial incarceration cannot become a substitute for punishment.
An accused remains presumed innocent until convicted.
If a person spends a substantial part of the maximum possible sentence in custody before guilt is determined, the constitutional guarantee of personal liberty becomes severely implicated.
The Courtβs reliance on Article 21 jurisprudence therefore reflects the continuing judicial effort to balance the societal harm caused by narcotic offences against the constitutional rights of undertrial prisoners.
Practical Takeaway for Defence Counsel
The judgment provides several useful points for lawyers dealing with NDPS bail matters.
At the bail stage, counsel should carefully examine:
the exact quantity recovered from the applicant;
whether additional recovery came from a separate place or co-accused;
the wording of the seizure memo;
the prosecutionβs own status report;
the applicability of Section 29 conspiracy allegations;
custody period already undergone;
number of witnesses examined and remaining;
prior interim bail conduct; and
whether the applicant has any criminal antecedents.
Where the prosecution’s own documents show a recovery below commercial quantity, that fact may materially affect the applicability of Section 37.
Practical Takeaway for Prosecution Agencies
The decision also underscores the importance of precise attribution in seizure and investigation records.
Where different quantities are recovered from different accused or locations, the prosecution must clearly establish the evidentiary basis for attributing the entire commercial quantity to each accused.
A generalised reference to a collective recovery may not be sufficient at the bail stage if the record itself distinguishes possession.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Courtβs decision in Mahender Pal v. State is a significant ruling at the intersection of NDPS bail law, quantity attribution and constitutional liberty. The Court held that the recovery directly attributable to the applicant was 40 kg of poppy straw β an intermediate quantity β and therefore the stringent conditions under Section 37 of the NDPS Act were not attracted qua him.
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Date: 09.09.2026
Gujarat High Court Order on IGST Refunds for Exporters
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Gujarat High Court recently delivered a significant judgment in the case of Messrs Aculife Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. & Anr. vs. The Union of India & Anr., addressing the contentious issue of IGST refunds on exported goods procured under the Advance Authorization Scheme. This article provides a detailed overview of the case, the legal arguments, the court’s reasoning, and its broader implications for exporters and GST compliance.
Background of the Case
Export Transactions and IGST Refunds
The petitioner, Aculife Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., exported medicaments between July 2017 and April 2019, paying Integrated Goods & Services Tax (IGST) on these exports.
The IGST paid was refunded under Section 16 of the IGST Act, 2017.
Dispute Arises
Authorities issued a show-cause notice in April 2023, arguing that since the petitioner procured goods duty-free under the Advance Authorization Scheme, they were not eligible to pay IGST on exports as per Sub-rule (10) of Rule 96 of the CGST Rules, 2017.
The Assistant Commissioner raised a demand for refund reversal, citing that the IGST payment and refund were contrary to Rule 96(10).
Appellate Proceedings
The petitioner appealed, and the Commissioner (Appeals) reduced the demand, referencing the Gujarat High Court’s earlier decision in the Cosmo Films Ltd. case, which clarified the prospective application of Rule 96(10) from October 9, 2018.
The demand was reduced to Rs. 9,97,222/-.
Legal Arguments Presented
Petitioner’s Stand:
The petitioner argued that the appeal was pending when Notification No. 20/2024 (dated October 8, 2024) omitted Rule 96(10).
Citing the Adwrap Packaging Ltd. case, the petitioner contended that the omission of Rule 96(10) should apply to all pending proceedings where final adjudication had not occurred.
Respondent’s Position:
The government did not dispute that the appeal was pending when the notification was issued.
The High Court’s Decision
The Court held that since the proceedings were pending before the appellate authority when Notification No. 20/2024 was issued, the omission of Rule 96(10) applied to the petitioner’s case.
The impugned order demanding refund reversal was quashed and set aside.
The petition was allowed, providing relief to the exporter.
Key Takeaways and Implications
Prospective Omission of Rule 96(10):
The omission of Rule 96(10) by Notification No. 20/2024 applies to all cases pending final adjudication as of the notification date.
Exporters with similar pending disputes may benefit from this precedent.
Legal Certainty for Exporters:
The judgment reinforces the principle that changes in tax rules, especially those affecting substantive rights, should not be applied retrospectively to the detriment of taxpayers.
Reference to Precedents:
The Court relied on its earlier decisions (Cosmo Films Ltd. and Adwrap Packaging Ltd.), ensuring consistency in GST jurisprudence.
Practical Impact:
Exporters who procured goods under duty-free schemes and faced IGST refund reversals can seek relief if their cases were pending as of October 8, 2024.
Conclusion
This Gujarat High Court order provides much-needed clarity on the application of GST rules to exporters using the Advance Authorization Scheme. It underscores the importance of timely legal recourse and highlights the judiciary’s role in protecting taxpayer rights amidst evolving tax regulations.
Aadrikaa Legal Services is a trusted legal and regulatory support partner providing end-to-end legal solutions to law firms, corporate organizations, and businesses across India. We specialize in paralegal services, litigation support, tax and regulatory matters, delivering reliable, efficient, and result-oriented legal assistance.
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Date: 08.09.2026
Supreme Court Clarifies Jurisdiction Over Release and Confiscation of Vehicles Seized Under NDPS Act
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Supreme Court of India, in a significant decision delivered on August 24, 2026, in the case of R Manimaran v. State of Tamil Nadu, has clarified the legal process for the release of vehicles seized under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act). This article provides a detailed analysis of the judgment, its background, and its implications for vehicle owners and law enforcement agencies.
Background of the Case
A lorry was intercepted by authorities, leading to the alleged recovery of 66 kg of ganja. Three individuals were arrested, and the vehicle was seized under the NDPS Act.
The trial court acquitted all accused on four main grounds:
The arrest memo predated the FIR registration, raising doubts about the investigation’s integrity.
No proper register was maintained for the custody of the contraband.
Official witnesses could not explain how the lorry was operating during pandemic restrictions.
There was an unexplained delay in sending samples to the court and laboratory.
Following acquittal, the trial court initially ordered the release of the lorry to its owner after the appeal period. However, when the owner applied for release, the trial court and subsequently the High Court rejected the request, citing the need for Drug Disposal Committee (DDC) involvement as per Section 52A of the NDPS Act and related rules.
Key Legal Issues Addressed
1. Confiscation Proceedings and Vehicle Release
The Supreme Court examined whether the release of a vehicle seized under the NDPS Act must always go through the DDC, even after acquittal.
The Court noted that confiscation proceedings under the NDPS Act are distinct from criminal proceedings. Acquittal does not automatically entitle the owner to the vehicle’s release, as the standards of proof differ.
2. Court’s Power vs. DDC’s Role
The Court clarified that the power to confiscate or release a vehicle lies with the trial court under Section 63(1) of the NDPS Act, not with the DDC.
The NDPS (Seizure, Storage, Sampling and Disposal) Rules, 2022, allow for disposal of seized items, but only with the court’s permission.
The DDC cannot independently dispose of a vehicle without a court order, especially while criminal proceedings are pending.
3. Interim Custody and Final Release
The Court distinguished between interim custody (during trial) and final release (after trial).
If the owner or any claimant does not seek custody, the Investigating Officer may request the court to refer the vehicle to the DDC for disposal, but only after giving the owner an opportunity to be heard.
Any proceeds from the sale of the vehicle by the DDC must be deposited with the jurisdictional court.
Supreme Court’s Decision
The Supreme Court set aside the orders of the trial court and the High Court, directing the immediate release of the vehicle to the appellant (owner), as the accused had been acquitted and the prosecution’s case was found to be unreliable.
The Court emphasized that the trial court’s original order to release the vehicle was justified and that the DDC’s involvement was not required in this scenario.
Implications of the Judgment
Reinforces Judicial Authority: The judgment reaffirms that the trial court has the primary authority to decide on the release or confiscation of vehicles seized under the NDPS Act.
Protects Owners’ Rights: Vehicle owners acquitted in NDPS cases can seek the return of their property directly from the court, without unnecessary procedural hurdles.
Clarifies DDC’s Limited Role: The DDC can only act with the court’s permission and cannot independently dispose of vehicles while criminal proceedings are ongoing or when the court has ordered release.
Ensures Due Process: The decision ensures that owners are given a fair opportunity to be heard before their property is disposed of, aligning with principles of natural justice.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s ruling in R Manimaran v. State of Tamil Nadu provides much-needed clarity on the process for releasing vehicles seized under the NDPS Act. By upholding the trial court’s authority and ensuring procedural fairness, the judgment balances the interests of law enforcement with the rights of property owners. This precedent will guide future cases involving the seizure and release of vehicles in NDPS matters.
Aadrikaa Legal Services is a trusted legal and regulatory support partner providing end-to-end legal solutions to law firms, corporate organizations, and businesses across India. We specialize in paralegal services, litigation support, tax and regulatory matters, delivering reliable, efficient, and result-oriented legal assistance.
Our services include comprehensive paralegal support, drafting and documentation, legal research, case management, litigation handling, and representation support across various judicial and quasi-judicial forums. We also assist in direct and indirect tax matters, customs, GST, corporate regulatory compliance, and legal advisory.
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Date: 08.09.2026
Delhi High Court Sets Aside Refusal of “OFFER” Trademark Registration for Alcoholic Beverages
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Delhi High Court recently delivered a significant judgment in favor of ADS Spirits Pvt. Ltd., overturning the Registrar of Trade Marks’ refusal to register the trademark “OFFER” for alcoholic beverages. This decision not only impacts the parties involved but also clarifies important principles regarding trademark distinctiveness under Indian law.
Background of the Case
ADS Spirits Pvt. Ltd., a prominent player in the Indian liquor industry, applied for registration of the trademark “OFFER” in Class 33 (covering alcoholic beverages except beers) in July 2022. The company, known for brands like Royal Green Whisky and Double Blue Whisky, sought to secure statutory rights over the mark, arguing that it was arbitrary and inherently distinctive for their products.
However, the Registrar of Trade Marks refused the application, citing Section 9(1)(a) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999. The Registrar argued that “OFFER” was a common English word, used in the context of discounts or promotions, and thus lacked the required distinctiveness to function as a trademark.
Key Arguments
ADS Spirits Pvt. Ltd.’s Position
Arbitrary and Distinctive Mark: The company contended that “OFFER” is arbitrary in relation to alcoholic beverages and not commonly used in the industry as a brand name.
Registrar’s Non-Application of Mind: ADS Spirits argued that the Registrar failed to consider their detailed submissions, including examples of other registered marks containing the word “OFFER” and relevant case law.
Wrong Legal Test Applied: The refusal was based on the mark’s lack of “uniqueness,” whereas the law requires an assessment of “distinctiveness”βwhether the mark can distinguish the applicant’s goods from others.
Registrar of Trade Marks’ Position
Common Usage: The Registrar maintained that “OFFER” is a generic term, commonly associated with discounts, and thus not unique or distinctive.
Sufficient Reasoning: It was argued that the order provided adequate reasoning and that detailed explanations were not legally required.
Court’s Analysis and Findings
Justice Jyoti Singh, presiding over the case, found several flaws in the Registrar’s approach:
Non-Speaking and Unreasoned Order: The Court criticized the Registrar for issuing a cryptic order that failed to address the applicant’s submissions or provide clear reasoning.
Incorrect Legal Standard: The Registrar wrongly focused on “uniqueness” instead of “distinctiveness.” The Court clarified that a mark need not be unique or novel; it must simply be capable of distinguishing the applicant’s goods.
Context Matters: The Court emphasized that distinctiveness must be assessed in relation to the specific goods. While “OFFER” is a common word, it is arbitrary when used for alcoholic beverages and not inherently promotional in this context.
Precedents Ignored: The Registrar overlooked relevant case law and examples of similar marks that had been registered in the past.
The Judgment
The Delhi High Court quashed the Registrar’s order, directing a fresh consideration of ADS Spirits Pvt. Ltd.’s application. The Court instructed the Registrar to:
Re-examine the application using the correct legal test of distinctiveness under Section 9(1)(a).
Consider all submissions, documents, and case law provided by the applicant.
Provide a reasoned and speaking order after granting the applicant an opportunity to be heard.
The decision must be made within four months from the date of the judgment.
Implications of the Ruling
This judgment reinforces the importance of reasoned decision-making by quasi-judicial authorities and clarifies the legal standards for assessing trademark distinctiveness. It also highlights that even common English words can serve as trademarks if they are arbitrary in relation to the goods or services in question.
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Our services include comprehensive paralegal support, drafting and documentation, legal research, case management, litigation handling, and representation support across various judicial and quasi-judicial forums. We also assist in direct and indirect tax matters, customs, GST, corporate regulatory compliance, and legal advisory.
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Date: 08.09.2026
CESTAT Chennai on Refund of Excess Export Duty and Limitation under Section 27 of the Customs Act, 1962
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Customs, Excise & Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT) Chennai recently delivered a significant judgment in the case of JSW Steel Ltd. vs. Commissioner of Customs, addressing the complex issue of export duty refunds and the application of statutory time limits. This article provides a detailed analysis of the case, its background, legal arguments, and the Tribunal’s final decision, offering valuable insights for exporters and legal professionals alike.
Case Background
JSW Steel Ltd. exported “Non Alloy Steel Slabs Export Prime Steel” under four shipping bills in June and July 2008. At the time, export duty was levied at 15% ad valorem, as per Notification No.66/2008-Cus. The company paid export duty based on the Free on Board (FOB) value declared in the shipping bills.
However, a subsequent CBEC Circular (No.18/2008-Cus dated 10.11.2008) clarified that until 31.12.2008, the FOB price should be treated as the cum-duty price for export duty computation. This clarification revealed that JSW Steel had overpaid export duty. Consequently, JSW filed a refund claim for Rs.1,61,96,066/- on 30.01.2009.
Chronology of Legal Proceedings
Initial Rejection: The refund claim was initially rejected as time-barred under Section 27 of the Customs Act, 1962.
First Appeal: The Commissioner (Appeals) allowed JSW’s appeal, holding that Section 27’s time limit did not apply.
Tribunal Remand: On Revenue’s appeal, the Tribunal remanded the case for reconsideration of facts and the applicability of Section 27.
Refund Sanctioned: The original authority, after reassessment, sanctioned the refund, recognizing the excess payment and the applicability of the CBEC Circular.
Revenue’s Appeal: The Commissioner (Appeals) again held the refund claim as time-barred, prompting JSW to appeal to CESTAT Chennai.
Key Legal Issues
1. Limitation Period for Refund Claims
JSW’s Argument: The limitation period should run from the date of reassessment (21.09.2015), not the original payment date, as the excess payment was only recognized after the CBEC Circular and subsequent reassessment.
Revenue’s Argument: The relevant date is the original payment date, making the refund claim time-barred under Section 27.
2. Nature of the Excess Payment
JSW contended that the excess amount was not “duty” as defined under the Act, since it was collected without authority of law, and thus not subject to Section 27’s limitation.
3. Interest on Refund
JSW also sought interest on the refunded amount, arguing that the delay was due to departmental actions.
Tribunal’s Analysis and Findings
A. Applicability of Section 27 Limitation
The Tribunal held that the cause of action for refund arose only upon reassessment on 21.09.2015, when the excess payment was officially recognized.
The refund application, though filed earlier, was linked to the reassessment, and thus not time-barred.
The Tribunal rejected arguments to bypass Section 27 using the Limitation Act or Article 265 of the Constitution, citing the Supreme Court’s decision in Mafatlal Industries Ltd. v. Union of India.
B. Assessment and Reassessment
The Tribunal clarified that the Note dated 21.09.2015 constituted a valid reassessment under Section 2(2) of the Customs Act.
Only the excess amount, not reflected in the original assessment, was subject to refund upon reassessment.
C. Interest on Refund
Interest under Section 27A is payable from three months after the date of reassessment (21.09.2015), not from the original refund application date.
This aligns with the Supreme Court’s ruling in Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. v. Union of India.
Final Order and Implications
The Tribunal set aside the impugned order of the Commissioner (Appeals) and restored the original order sanctioning the refund of Rs.1,61,96,066/- to JSW Steel Ltd.
Interest is to be paid from 22.12.2015 (three months after reassessment) until the date of actual refund.
The decision reinforces the principle that refund claims linked to reassessment are not time-barred from the original payment date, providing clarity for exporters facing similar issues.
Conclusion
The CESTAT Chennai’s decision in the JSW Steel Ltd. case sets an important precedent for the treatment of export duty refunds, particularly regarding the limitation period and the recognition of reassessment as the trigger for refund claims. Exporters and legal practitioners should carefully consider this ruling when dealing with similar disputes, ensuring that refund applications are aligned with the latest assessments and departmental clarifications.
Aadrikaa Legal Services is a trusted legal and regulatory support partner providing end-to-end legal solutions to law firms, corporate organizations, and businesses across India. We specialize in paralegal services, litigation support, tax and regulatory matters, delivering reliable, efficient, and result-oriented legal assistance.
Our services include comprehensive paralegal support, drafting and documentation, legal research, case management, litigation handling, and representation support across various judicial and quasi-judicial forums. We also assist in direct and indirect tax matters, customs, GST, corporate regulatory compliance, and legal advisory.
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Date: 07.09.2026
Delhi High Court Invalidates Trademark Assignment, Affirms Corporate Ownership of ‘Su-Kam’ Brand
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Delhi High Court recently delivered a significant judgment in the legal battle over the ownership and rights to the “Su-Kam” trademarks. The dispute, between Su-Kam Power Systems Ltd. (the plaintiff) and its former managing director, Mr. Kunwer Sachdev, along with others (the defendants), centered on the rightful ownership and use of the “Su-Kam” brand, especially in relation to inverters and related products under Class 9 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
Background of the Dispute
Su-Kam Power Systems Ltd. is a well-known manufacturer of power backup solutions, including inverters and batteries. The conflict arose when Mr. Sachdev, after leaving the company, claimed ownership of the “Su-Kam” trademarks based on a Deed of Assignment and other historical agreements. The plaintiff, through its resolution professional and later a liquidator, sought a declaration of exclusive ownership, invalidation of the assignment deed, and an injunction against the defendants from asserting any rights over the trademarks.
Key Arguments
Plaintiff’s Position
Continuous Use and Registration: Su-Kam Power Systems Ltd. had registered the “Su-Kam” marks in Class 9 and used them extensively since 1998, with no objection from Mr. Sachdev during his tenure as managing director and majority shareholder.
Admissions by Defendant: Multiple instances were cited where Mr. Sachdev, in official documents and agreements (including with Reliance India Power Fund and in a 2015 infringement suit), acknowledged the company as the rightful owner of the trademarks.
Estoppel: The plaintiff argued that Mr. Sachdev was estopped from denying the company’s ownership due to his prior representations and conduct.
Invalid Assignment: The Deed of Assignment was challenged as invalid due to breach of fiduciary duty, lack of proper board authorization, and being executed by Mr. Sachdev in conflicting roles.
Defendant’s Position
Original Proprietorship: Mr. Sachdev claimed to have coined and used the “Su-Kam” mark since 1986, licensing it to his partnership firm and later to the company.
Validity of Assignment: He argued that the Deed of Assignment was valid and that the company was merely a licensee.
Need for Trial: The defense insisted that issues of fraud and document authenticity required oral evidence and could not be decided summarily.
Court’s Analysis and Findings
Summary Judgment Justified: The court held that, under the Commercial Courts Act and Order XIIIA of the CPC, summary judgment was appropriate as the defendants had no real prospect of successfully defending the claim and there was no compelling reason for a full trial.
Exclusive Proprietorship: The court found that Su-Kam Power Systems Ltd. is the exclusive registered proprietor of the “Su-Kam” trademarks in Class 9, with valid and subsisting registrations renewed during Mr. Sachdev’s management.
Invalidity of Assignment: The Deed of Assignment was declared void due to breach of fiduciary duty, lack of proper board quorum, and failure to register the assignment as required by law.
Estoppel: Mr. Sachdev was estopped from claiming ownership, having repeatedly represented the company as the owner in various legal and commercial contexts.
Limitation: The suit was held to be within limitation, as the cause of action arose only when Mr. Sachdev asserted ownership in 2018.
Final Judgment and Reliefs Granted
The court decreed the suit in favor of Su-Kam Power Systems Ltd., granting the following reliefs:
Declaration: The Deed of Assignment dated March 16, 2006, is invalid.
Declaration: The License Agreement dated July 7, 1995, never was and is not applicable to the plaintiff.
Directions: The Trade Marks Registry was directed not to proceed with the defendant’s request for recordal of assignment.
Permanent Injunctions: The defendants were restrained from:
Claiming ownership of the “Su-Kam” marks.
Applying for or obtaining registration of the marks in any form.
Using the marks as a trade name, domain, or in any other manner.
No Order as to Costs: The court did not award costs to either party.
Significance of the Judgment
This decision reinforces the importance of proper corporate governance, the binding nature of admissions and representations by company directors, and the legal protections afforded to registered trademark proprietors. It also clarifies the application of summary judgment procedures in commercial disputes, emphasizing efficiency and the avoidance of unnecessary trials.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Court’s ruling provides clarity on trademark ownership in corporate contexts and sets a precedent for similar disputes. Su-Kam Power Systems Ltd. retains exclusive rights to the “Su-Kam” trademarks in Class 9, ensuring brand continuity and legal certainty for its business operations.
Aadrikaa Legal Services is a trusted legal and regulatory support partner providing end-to-end legal solutions to law firms, corporate organizations, and businesses across India. We specialize in paralegal services, litigation support, tax and regulatory matters, delivering reliable, efficient, and result-oriented legal assistance.
Our services include comprehensive paralegal support, drafting and documentation, legal research, case management, litigation handling, and representation support across various judicial and quasi-judicial forums. We also assist in direct and indirect tax matters, customs, GST, corporate regulatory compliance, and legal advisory.
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Date: 07.09.2026
Supreme Court Clarifies Applicability of Section 42 NDPS Act
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The Supreme Court of India, in a landmark judgment, acquitted Boota Singh and others who were previously convicted under Section 15 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act) for possession and sale of poppy straw. This article provides a detailed analysis of the case, the legal issues involved, and the implications of the Supreme Court’s decision.
Background of the Case
On January 28, 2002, police officials received secret information that the accused were selling poppy straw from a jeep on a public road. Acting on this tip, the police conducted a raid and apprehended Boota Singh, Gurdeep Singh, and Gurmohinder Singh at the scene, while a fourth accused, Major Singh, managed to escape. The police recovered two bags containing a total of 75 kg of poppy straw from the jeep. The accused were charged under Section 15 of the NDPS Act.
Trial and Conviction
During the trial, the prosecution presented four witnesses and documentary evidence. The trial court acquitted Major Singh but convicted the other three accused, sentencing them to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 1,00,000 each. The court held that since the recovery was made from a public place (the jeep on a public road), Section 43 of the NDPS Act applied, not Section 42, which deals with search and seizure in private places.
Appeal and Legal Issues
The convicted accused appealed to the High Court, which upheld the trial court’s decision. The main legal issue revolved around whether the search and seizure should have complied with Section 42 (which requires recording secret information in writing and informing a superior officer) or Section 43 (which applies to public places and does not require such formalities).
The appellants argued that:
The vehicle was a private jeep, not a public conveyance.
The police did not record the secret information in writing or obtain search warrants.
Section 42 should apply, and its non-compliance entitled them to acquittal, as established in previous Supreme Court rulings.
Supreme Court’s Analysis and Judgment
The Supreme Court examined the facts and relevant legal precedents, including the Constitution Bench decision in Karnail Singh v. State of Haryana and State of Rajasthan v. Jagraj Singh alias Hansa. The Court noted:
The jeep was a private vehicle, not a public transport vehicle.
Section 43 applies to public places and public conveyances, but a private vehicle does not fall under this definition, even if parked on a public road.
Total non-compliance with Section 42 is impermissible. The police failed to record the secret information in writing or inform their superior, as required by Section 42.
The Court concluded that the lower courts erred in applying Section 43 instead of Section 42. Since there was total non-compliance with Section 42, the conviction could not be sustained.
Outcome and Implications
The Supreme Court allowed the appeal, set aside the convictions, and ordered the immediate release of the appellants unless required in connection with any other offence. This judgment reinforces the importance of strict compliance with procedural safeguards under the NDPS Act, especially regarding search and seizure based on secret information.
Key Takeaways
Distinction Between Section 42 and Section 43: Section 42 applies to private places and vehicles, requiring written recording of information and communication to a superior officer. Section 43 applies to public places and public conveyances.
Procedural Safeguards: Non-compliance with Section 42 is fatal to the prosecution’s case. Delayed compliance may be excused with satisfactory explanation, but total non-compliance is not permissible.
Impact on Future Cases: The judgment sets a precedent for strict adherence to procedural requirements in NDPS cases, ensuring protection against arbitrary search and seizure.
This case serves as a reminder that procedural lapses by law enforcement can lead to acquittal, even in serious offences under the NDPS Act.
Aadrikaa Legal Services is a trusted legal and regulatory support partner providing end-to-end legal solutions to law firms, corporate organizations, and businesses across India. We specialize in paralegal services, litigation support, tax and regulatory matters, delivering reliable, efficient, and result-oriented legal assistance.
Our services include comprehensive paralegal support, drafting and documentation, legal research, case management, litigation handling, and representation support across various judicial and quasi-judicial forums. We also assist in direct and indirect tax matters, customs, GST, corporate regulatory compliance, and legal advisory.
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Date: 07.09.2026
Judicial Scrutiny of Confiscation and Penalty Orders on Restricted Second-Hand Imports
This Short Article has been prepared & written by Advocate Ravi Shekhar Jha-Delhi High Court, New Delhi. The views expressed are based on his interpretation of the law. He can be reached at his email id intelconsul@gmail.com .
The recent decision by the Customs, Excise & Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), Bangalore, in the case of M/s. Ascent Circuits Pvt. Ltd. versus the Commissioner of Customs, highlights critical aspects of Indian customs law, particularly regarding the import of second-hand goods and the exercise of discretion in confiscation and penalty proceedings. This article provides a detailed overview and analysis of the case, its legal context, and its broader implications for importers and regulatory authorities.
Case Background
M/s. Ascent Circuits Pvt. Ltd. imported a “Posalux Machine DLR Measuring Unit.” Upon examination, customs authorities determined the goods were second-hand and classified as restricted under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP). The original adjudicating authority ordered the goods to be released upon payment of a redemption fine of Rs. 30,000 under Section 125 of the Customs Act, 1962, and imposed a penalty of Rs. 10,000 under Section 112(a) of the Act.
Both the importer and the Revenue appealed. The Commissioner (Appeals) dismissed the importer’s appeal, allowed the Revenue’s appeal, ordered absolute confiscation (no redemption), and enhanced the penalty to Rs. 1,00,000 under Section 114AA.
Key Legal Issues
1. Classification and Restriction of Goods
The core issue was whether the imported machine was a second-hand good and thus restricted under the FTP.
The examination report and a Chartered Engineer’s certificate confirmed the goods were second-hand, aged over six months, with a residual life of over six years.
As per FTP 2015-2020, import of second-hand goods (other than capital goods) is restricted and requires authorization.
2. Confiscation and Redemption Fine
Section 125 of the Customs Act allows authorities discretion to offer redemption of confiscated goods upon payment of a fine, except in cases where absolute confiscation is warranted.
The Tribunal emphasized that this discretion must be exercised judiciously, with clear reasoning, and not as a mere formality.
The Commissioner (Appeals) relied on Supreme Court precedent (Union of India vs. Raj Grow Impex LLP) to justify absolute confiscation, but the Tribunal found the facts distinguishable and the reasoning insufficient for denying redemption.
3. Penalty Provisions and Enhancement
The original penalty was imposed under Section 112(a), but the Commissioner (Appeals) enhanced it under Section 114AA, which deals with fraudulent documents.
The Tribunal held that these sections address different types of violations and that the enhancement was not justified in this context.
Tribunal’s Findings and Decision
The Tribunal found that the goods were indeed second-hand and restricted, but not absolutely prohibited.
There was no evidence of fraud or mala fide intent by the importer.
The original authority’s decision to allow redemption on payment of fine was appropriate.
The enhancement of penalty and order of absolute confiscation by the Commissioner (Appeals) were set aside.
The appeal was allowed, restoring the original order: goods could be redeemed on payment of fine, and the lower penalty was reinstated.
Legal and Practical Implications
Discretion in Confiscation: Authorities must provide clear, reasoned justification when exercising discretion, especially when opting for absolute confiscation over redemption.
Penalty Assessment: Penalties must be proportionate and based on the specific nature of the violation; enhancement requires a solid legal basis.
Importer Responsibilities: Importers must ensure compliance with FTP and maintain documentation to establish the nature and condition of imported goods.
Precedent Value: The case clarifies the application of Supreme Court judgments and the limits of administrative discretion in customs matters.
Conclusion
The Ascent Circuits Pvt. Ltd. case underscores the importance of reasoned decision-making in customs adjudication and the need for proportionality in penalties. It serves as a valuable reference for importers, legal practitioners, and customs officials navigating the complexities of restricted goods under Indian law.
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