Motherson Industries Private Limited Restrained from Using "MOTHERSON" Trademark Amid Claims of Infringement
In a significant judgment delivered on May 29, 2026, the Delhi High Court has granted an ex-parte ad-interim injunction in favor of M/s. Motherson, a leading global manufacturer of auto components, against Motherson Industries Private Limited. The court has restrained the defendants from using the trademark "MOTHERSON" or any similar mark that could mislead the public, citing trademark infringement under the Trademark Act, 1999.
The plaintiff, M/s. Motherson, established in 1975, demonstrated prior adoption, extensive use, and multiple registrations of the "MOTHERSON" trademark both in India and internationally. The court noted that the plaintiff had invested significantly in promoting the trademark, which has become synonymous with its brand in the auto components industry. The defendants, on the other hand, were found to have adopted the mark "MOTHERSON" on a "proposed to be used basis" in 2024-25.
Presiding Judge Tushar Rao Gedela underscored the likelihood of confusion among the public due to the defendants' usage of the mark. The court further observed that the plaintiff's trademark serves as a source identifier, exclusive to M/s. Motherson. Given the strong prima facie case established by the plaintiff, along with the balance of convenience favoring them, the injunction was deemed necessary to prevent irreparable loss and injury to the plaintiff's brand.
The court's decision mandates that the defendants, their directors, wholesalers, and distributors cease the use, manufacturing, sale, or distribution of products bearing the "MOTHERSON" trademark. This includes any digital or advertising material that could result in trademark infringement. The court also directed compliance with procedural orders and set timelines for the defendants to respond to the suit.
This ruling underscores the importance of trademark protection and the judiciary's role in upholding intellectual property rights, particularly in cases involving established and well-known brands.
Bottom line:-
Trademark infringement - Plaintiff established prior usage and registration of the trademark "MOTHERSON" and its variants. Defendants restrained from using the trademark or any similar mark that could cause confusion or mislead the public.
Statutory provision(s): Trademark Act, 1999 Section 29, Order XXXIX Rules 1 & 2, CPC, 1908, Section 12A of the Commercial Courts Act, 2015.
M/s. Motherson v. Motherson Industries Private Limited, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc id # 2921909
