Delhi High Court Awards ₹7 Lakh As Costs And Damages To 'New Balance' In Trademark Infringement Suit

The Delhi High Court awarded ₹7 lakh in costs and damages to New Balance in a trademark infringement suit against Pulkit Khubchandani. Justice Mini Pushkarna ruled in favor of New Balance, concluding that Khubchandani’s company, Kiran Shoe Company, had infringed on New Balance’s registered trademarks by manufacturing and selling footwear with marks similar to New Balance’s “N” and “550” marks. The court noted that Khubchandani’s use of these marks was likely to confuse consumers and unfairly benefit from New Balance’s reputation. Despite Khubchandani’s claim that he had ceased using the infringing marks, the court found no plausible justification for their adoption other than to capitalize on New Balance’s goodwill. The court emphasized that the use of New Balance’s marks by Khubchandani was detrimental to the distinctive character and repute of New Balance’s registered trademarks.