This Week in IP

Drafting Credit: Sidratul Muntaha, Research Associate

Image credits: via Magnific

Weekly IPR Update | 25 May 2026 – 31 May 2026

Louis Vuitton Loses Trademark Battle Against Karol Bagh Traders

Delhi court has dismissed a trademark infringement suit filed by French luxury brand Louis Vuitton against two Karol Bagh traders accused of selling goods bearing the marks “LV” and “Louis Vuitton.”1 The court held that mere ownership of trademark registrations does not automatically entitle a plaintiff to relief and that Louis Vuitton failed to establish the defendants’ involvement in any infringing activities. The court found that the evidence relied upon by Louis Vuitton, including the Local Commissioner’s report, did not sufficiently link the allegedly infringing goods to the defendants. In one instance, the seized goods were claimed to belong to a customer, while in another, only a single pair of shoes bore a mark resembling “LV,” with the remaining products carrying unrelated branding. Consequently, the court refused to grant injunctions, damages, or rendition of accounts and dismissed the suit. The decision underscores the importance of proving actionable involvement and infringement through clear evidence, even where a well-known trademark is involved.2 Read more here.

Counterfeit Bearings, Real Consequences: Delhi HC Puts the Brakes on Fake SKF Network

Delhi High Court has granted interim protection to AB SKF by restraining five identified entities and several unknown parties from using the registered “SKF” trademark in connection with allegedly counterfeit bearings.3 Observing a prima facie case of trademark infringement, the Court noted that the defendants appeared to be operating a coordinated network that copied SKF’s trademark, packaging, trade dress, and certification materials so closely that consumers could struggle to distinguish genuine products from counterfeits. The Court also directed the freezing of three bank accounts linked to the alleged operation, highlighting the use of fake authorisation and inspection certificates to deceive customers. Emphasising that such activities resulted in unlawful financial gains while threatening SKF’s goodwill and reputation, the Court issued a temporary injunction against the use of the “SKF” mark and related branding, underscoring the judiciary’s firm stance against organised counterfeiting and trademark abuse.4 Read more here.

Reasoned Orders or Bust: Delhi HC Revives VIB’s Patent Application

Delhi High Court has set aside the rejection of a patent application filed by Belgium-based research institute VIB VZW for an invention relating to the oral delivery of therapeutic proteins, holding that the Controller of Patents failed to adequately consider the applicant’s submissions and passed an unreasoned order.5 Justice Jyoti Singh observed that merely reiterating earlier objections without engaging with detailed responses violates principles of natural justice and undermines the patent examination process. The Court also identified factual errors in the refusal order, including an incorrect finding regarding the disclosure of biological material, and noted that the Controller failed to properly assess inventive step using the structured analysis required under established precedent. Finding multiple shortcomings in the examination process, the Court remanded the matter for fresh consideration and directed the patent authority to issue a reasoned, speaking order after granting the applicant a new hearing.6 Read more here.

Keyword Wars: Google Defends Ad Policy After Hindware Trademark Setback

Delhi High Court ruling restrained Google from using “HINDWARE” as an advertising keyword. The tech giant publicly defended its trademark advertising policy, asserting that it prohibits competitors from using trademarked terms in ad text and is applied consistently worldwide. However, the Court’s findings sharply diverged from Google’s position, holding that even invisible backend keyword triggers can amount to trademark use under Indian law. The judgment also questioned Google’s claim of global consistency, noting evidence that the company investigates trademark complaints in Europe but not in India, and criticised its Keyword Planner tool for allegedly facilitating infringement by suggesting rival trademarks as bidding keywords. With previous rulings on keyword advertising, reaching different conclusions, the legality of keyword advertising remains unsettled, setting the stage for further appellate scrutiny and a possible definitive ruling on the issue.7 Read more here.

Deepfakes, Fake Merch & Misuse: Delhi HC Shields Varun Dhawan’s Persona

In a significant ruling on personality rights in the digital age, the Delhi High Court granted interim protection to actor Varun Dhawan, restraining unauthorised use of his name, image, voice, likeness and other personality attributes. The Court directed the takedown of deepfake, AI-generated and pornographic content featuring the actor, while also prohibiting the sale of unauthorised merchandise and the false promotion of appearances or performances using his identity. Observing that such misuse could cause irreparable harm to his reputation and mislead the public, the Court reaffirmed that celebrities have a right to control the commercial exploitation of their persona and that technological tools such as AI and deepfakes cannot be used to infringe those rights without consent.8 Read more here.

Who Owns a Legacy? Delhi HC Examines Posthumous Personality Rights Claim

A novel question of law came before the Delhi High Court as Meta challenged whether personality rights can be enforced for a deceased individual in a dispute involving the legacy of spiritual leader Sadguru Shri Devnandandasji Swami.9 During proceedings between Shree Swaminarayan Sarvopari Siddhant Digvijay Trust and a breakaway faction allegedly using Babji’s image and identity, Meta argued that the Court must first determine whether personality rights survive death. The Trust, however, contended that a deceased person’s persona can become a protectable asset when closely tied to an institution’s identity and goodwill. The case also involves allegations of trademark infringement, misuse of Babji’s likeness on social media, and claims that the rival organisation falsely portrays him as its founder despite being established years after his death. The matter highlights the growing legal debate over the scope of posthumous personality rights in India and their intersection with digital platforms, religious institutions, and intellectual property law.10 Read more here.

Breathalyser Patent Gets a Second Chance: Delhi HC Faults IPO’s Analysis

The Delhi High Court has revived a patent application filed by the University of North Texas for a portable breathalyser technology designed to detect cannabinoids such as THC from breath samples. Setting aside the Indian Patent Office’s refusal, Justice Jyoti Singh held that the rejection order was cryptic and failed to properly assess key patentability requirements, including inventive step and the applicability of the diagnostic method exclusion. The Court observed that the Controller had not followed the established test for determining obviousness, including identifying the person skilled in the art, and had inadequately analysed the invention’s technical advancements over prior art. Emphasising the need for reasoned and detailed patent examination, the Court remanded the application for fresh consideration, directing the Patent Office to issue a speaking order after granting the applicants an opportunity to be heard.11 Read more here.

Counterfeit Raid Turns Violent: Bombay HC Demands Action After Attack on Court Receiver

Bombay High Court ordered police action after a court-appointed receiver was allegedly assaulted during a raid that uncovered suspected counterfeit products bearing Unilever Plc trademarks.12 The Court described the incident as “extremely despicable,” stressing that no one can take the law into their own hands and that the rule of law must prevail. The raid, conducted pursuant to a court order, allegedly revealed large quantities of counterfeit products and packaging resembling brands such as Dove, Pond’s and Clinic Plus. After reviewing medical records and evidence, the Court found a prima facie case of assault on the receiver and accompanying representatives, directing the Superintendent of Police, Ambala, to initiate action against those involved and provide police protection for future enforcement proceedings. The ruling underscores the judiciary’s firm stance on safeguarding court officers and ensuring effective enforcement of intellectual property rights.13 Read more here.

Honda’s Adventure Scooter Eyes India: ADV 160 Design Patent Filed

Honda has filed a design patent in India for the Honda ADV 160, signalling potential interest in bringing its globally popular adventure-style maxi-scooter to the Indian market. While a design patent does not guarantee a market launch, the move signals Honda’s intent to protect its intellectual property and potentially enter the growing performance scooter segment currently led by rivals such as the Yamaha Aerox 155 and Hero Xoom 160. Globally known for its rugged styling, advanced features, and 156.9cc engine, the ADV 160 blends maxi-scooter practicality with adventure-inspired design. If introduced in India, it could significantly strengthen Honda’s presence in the premium scooter market and offer enthusiasts a new alternative in the increasingly competitive segment.14

CNN Takes Perplexity to Court in Latest AI Copyright Showdown

CNN has filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against AI startup Perplexity AI, alleging that the company unlawfully copied and distributed CNN’s content through its AI-powered search and answer platform. The suit, filed in a New York federal court, marks CNN’s first legal action over AI-related copyright issues and is believed to be the first such lawsuit brought by a television network. CNN claims that Perplexity continued using its content despite failed licensing negotiations, arguing that AI companies should compensate publishers whose journalism they rely on. Perplexity, however, maintains that facts themselves cannot be copyrighted and has defended its practices as consistent with established principles of intellectual property law. The dispute reflects the growing tension between news publishers and AI developers, as media companies increasingly pursue either licensing agreements or litigation to protect and monetise their content in the age of generative AI.15

Disney, Universal & Warner Score Early Win in AI Copyright Fight Against MiniMax

A California federal court has refused to dismiss a copyright infringement lawsuit brought by entertainment giants The Walt Disney Company, Universal Pictures and Warner Bros. Discovery against Chinese AI company MiniMax, allowing claims over the alleged unauthorised use of copyrighted content to train its Hailuo AI system to proceed.16 The studios contend that MiniMax trained its image and video generation model on protected works and enabled the creation of content featuring iconic characters from franchises such as Marvel and Star Wars without permission. Rejecting MiniMax’s arguments on both jurisdiction and the sufficiency of the claims, the court found that the studios had plausibly alleged copyright infringement and that MiniMax’s offering of the Hailuo app in the United States was enough to keep the dispute before a U.S. court. The ruling marks an early but significant victory for rights holders in the growing wave of AI copyright litigation shaping the future relationship between creative industries and generative AI developers.17

IP Under the Microscope: U.S. Launches Probe into Vietnam’s Enforcement Practices

The United States has initiated a Section 301 investigation into Vietnam’s intellectual property regime, citing longstanding concerns over inadequate IP protection and enforcement that allegedly harm American innovators and creators. Announced by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the probe could pave the way for new tariffs or other trade measures if unfair practices are found. While Vietnam has pledged to cooperate and highlighted recent efforts to strengthen its IP framework, U.S. officials maintain that counterfeiting, piracy, and weak enforcement remain persistent issues. The investigation comes amid growing trade tensions and a widening U.S. trade deficit with Vietnam, underscoring how intellectual property enforcement is increasingly becoming a key factor in international trade relations and economic diplomacy.18

J&J Secures Patent Victory in High-Stakes Heart Pump Dispute

A Massachusetts jury has handed a significant win to Johnson & Johnson subsidiary Abiomed, finding that its Impella heart pumps do not infringe a patent asserted by Maquet Cardiovascular and further ruling that the patent itself is invalid.19 The lawsuit, originally filed in 2017, centred on heart-pump technology used to treat heart failure, with Maquet alleging that Abiomed’s devices infringed a patent covering a specific pump design. The verdict not only shields Abiomed’s flagship Impella product line, which generates substantial revenue for Johnson & Johnson but also represents a major setback for Maquet in a long-running patent battle. While a related patent dispute between the parties remains ongoing, the decision underscores the crucial role of patent validity and infringement findings in shaping competition within the high-value medical device sector.20

Funk, Royalties & Copyright: George Clinton Faces Revived Lawsuit

A U.S. appeals court has revived a royalty dispute against legendary Parliament-Funkadelic frontman George Clinton, allowing the estate of late keyboardist Bernie Worrell to pursue claims for unpaid royalties. The Sixth Circuit overturned a lower court ruling that had dismissed the lawsuit as time-barred, finding that the statute of limitations may have begun much later than previously believed. At the heart of the dispute is the estate’s argument that a 1976 agreement between Worrell and Clinton was never valid, potentially making Worrell a co-owner of certain recordings and entitling his estate to ongoing royalty payments under U.S. copyright law. The ruling sends the case back to federal court and marks a significant procedural victory for Worrell’s estate in a long-running battle over ownership, royalties, and recognition within one of funk music’s most influential groups.21

Patent Expiry Sparks Competition: Brazil Approves First Generic Ozempic

Brazil has approved the country’s first generic version of Ozempic, signalling the commercial impact of expiring patent protections for semaglutide in select markets. The approval allows Brazilian drugmaker EMS to launch its generic product, Ozivy, at a lower price point, highlighting how the end of exclusivity periods can open markets to competition and improve access to high-demand medicines. The move reflects a broader global trend, with countries such as India and Canada also beginning to see generic semaglutide products enter the market as intellectual property barriers weaken. For the pharmaceutical industry, the development underscores the critical role patents play in balancing innovation incentives with eventual market competition, while demonstrating how patent expirations can rapidly reshape the commercial landscape for blockbuster drugs.22

  1. Louis Vuitton Malletier v. Majeet Singh & Anr., TM No. 115/17. ↩︎
  2. Riya Rathore, Delhi Court Dismisses Louis Vuitton Trademark Infringement Suit Against Karol Bagh Traders, LiveLaw Biz (May 30, 2026), https://www.livelawbiz.com/trademark/delhi-court-dismisses-louis-vuitton-trademark-infringement-suit-against-karol-bagh-traders-536299 ↩︎
  3. AB SKF v. M/S SNKB Bearings & Ors., 2026 LLBiz HC (DEL) 544. ↩︎
  4. Riya Rathore, Delhi High Court Restrains Named, Unknown Parties From Using SKF Trademark For Bearings, Freezes Bank Accounts, LiveLaw Biz (May 25, 2026), https://www.livelawbiz.com/trademark/delhi-high-court-grants-temporary-injunction-against-counterfeit-skf-bearings-network-535570 ↩︎
  5. VIB VZW & Anr v. The Controller Of Patents And Designs, 2026 LLBiz HC (DEL) 548. ↩︎
  6. Riya Rathore, Delhi High Court Sets Aside Rejection Of Patent For VIB’s Oral Protein Delivery Invention, LiveLaw Biz (May 26, 2026),https://www.livelawbiz.com/patent/delhi-high-court-sets-aside-patent-refusal-on-oral-protein-delivery-invention-remands-for-fresh-consideration-535714 ↩︎
  7. Aakriti Bansal, Google Defends Trademark Ad Policy After Delhi HC’s Hindware Keyword Advertising Ruling, MEDIANAMA (June 1, 2026), https://www.medianama.com/2026/06/223-google-hindware-trademark-keyword-case/. ↩︎
  8. Bhavini Srivastava, Delhi High Court protects personality rights of Varun Dhawan; directs takedown of AI deepfakes, Bar and Bench (June 1, 2026), https://www.barandbench.com/news/delhi-high-court-protects-personality-rights-of-varun-dhawan-directs-takedown-of-ai-deepfakes. ↩︎
  9. Shree Swaminarayan Sarvopari Siddhant Digvijay Trust v. Sukhmay Karan Satsang Foundation & Ors., CS(COMM) – 607/2026. ↩︎
  10. Riya Rathore, Can Personality Rights Be Protected After Death? Meta Raises Query In Delhi HC Over Sadgurudev Babji’s Personality Rights, LiveLaw Biz (May 26, 2026), https://www.livelawbiz.com/personality-rights/delhi-high-court-to-pass-orders-on-posthumous-personality-rights-meta-questions-legal-standing-for-those-no-longer-in-this-world-535765 ↩︎
  11. Riya Rathore, Delhi High Court Revives University Of North Texas’ Patent Bid For Marijuana Detection Breathalyser, LiveLaw Biz (May 25, 2026), https://www.livelawbiz.com/patent/delhi-high-court-revives-university-of-north-texas-patent-bid-for-marijuana-detection-breathalyser-535548 ↩︎
  12. Unilever Plc v. Ashok Kumar, 2026 LLBiz HC (BOM) 306. ↩︎
  13. Riya Rathore, “Extremely Despicable”: Bombay HC Orders Police Action Over Assault On Receiver During Counterfeit Goods Raid, LiveLaw Biz (May 30, 2026), https://www.livelawbiz.com/more/extremely-despicable-bombay-hc-orders-action-after-assault-on-court-receiver-during-counterfeit-goods-raid-536261 ↩︎
  14. Honda ADV 160 Design Patented In India, Will Rival Yamaha Aerox, Hero Xoom 160, NDTV (May 25, 2026), https://www.ndtv.com/auto/honda-adv-160-design-patented-in-india-will-rival-yamaha-aerox-hero-xoom-160-11544950. ↩︎
  15. Brian Stelter, CNN sues Perplexity over alleged AI copyright theft, CNN (May 28, 2026), https://edition.cnn.com/2026/05/28/media/cnn-sues-perplexity-ai-copyright. ↩︎
  16. Disney Enterprises Inc v. MiniMax, 2:25-cv-08768. ↩︎
  17. Blake Brittain, China’s MiniMax loses bid to end Disney copyright lawsuit over AI system, Reuters (May 26, 2026), https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/chinas-minimax-loses-bid-end-disney-copyright-lawsuit-over-ai-system-2026-05-26/. ↩︎
  18. David Lawder, Shakil and Bhargav Acharya, US investigates Vietnam’s intellectual property practices, Reuters (May 30, 2026), https://www.reuters.com/world/us-launches-trade-probe-into-vietnams-intellectual-property-protections-2026-05-29/. ↩︎
  19. Maquet Cardiovascular LLC v. Abiomed Inc, ​1:17-cv-12311. ↩︎
  20. Blake Brittain, Johnson & Johnson defeats heart-pump patent claims in US trial, Reuters (May 29, 2026), https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/johnson-johnson-defeats-heart-pump-patent-claims-us-trial-2026-05-29/. ↩︎
  21. Mandy Dalugdug, George Clinton must face late bandmate’s estate copyright suit, appeals court rules, Music Business Worldwide (May 28, 2026), https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/george-clinton-must-face-late-bandmates-estate-copyright-suit-appeals-court-rules/. ↩︎
  22. Rachel Gamarski and Leonardo Lara, Brazil Clears First Generic Copy of Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic Shot, Financial Post (May 26, 2026), https://financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/brazil-clears-first-generic-copy-of-novo-nordisks-ozempic-shot. ↩︎

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