Calcutta HC Upholds Injunction Against KMP Coconut Oil for Copying Shalimar Packaging

The Calcutta High Court upheld an injunction restraining KMP Coconut Oil from using packaging deceptively similar to Shalimar’s well-known coconut oil product. The Court held that similarities in colour combination, layout, arrangement, and overall trade dress created a high likelihood of consumer confusion, amounting to passing off. The article explains the rival packaging, the plaintiff’s claim of long-standing goodwill, and the defendant’s arguments denying imitation. The Court found intentional copying evident and stressed that trade dress forms an integral part of brand identity deserving protection. The judgment underscores the purpose of trademark and passing-off law: safeguarding consumers and preventing unfair commercial advantage. The article also describes the broader significance for FMCG markets where visual elements heavily influence consumer choices.