Trademark Tussle: WTCA vs WTC Noida - A Battle for Brand Integrity

The Delhi High Court has restrained WTC Noida Development from using the trademarks of World Trade Centres Association (WTCA), citing goodwill tarnish. Issues were raised over WTC Noida's legal rights to the marks and contractual obligations, revealing inaction and financial defaults. WTCA highlights damage to reputation and rightful licensees.

The Delhi High Court has issued an order stopping WTC Noida Development from using trademarks belonging to the World Trade Centres Association (WTCA). The court noted that the marks' reputation was being compromised, with a prima facie case supporting WTCA's claims against WTC Noida and its promoters, including Ashish Bhalla related to Bhalla Group of Companies.

Justice Amit Bansal highlighted that the balance of convenience favored WTCA due to possible adverse effects on its rights, coupled with potential harm to public perception. The court's injunction persists until September 18, banning the defendants from infringing WTCA's trademarks, including 'World Trade Center' and 'WTC', across various platforms.

WTCA's legal action follows complaints of WTC Noida's contractual delays and financial defaults in licensed areas, prompting the agreement termination. Despite WTCA's demands to cease mark usage, WTC Noida resisted compliance, further compounded by media references linking Bhalla's legal issues to WTCA, harming its reputation.

(With inputs from agencies.)