In a significant ruling for intellectual property rights in India's hospitality sector, the Delhi High Court has prohibited Bukhara Inn (Hotel Bukhara) from using the trademark 'BUKHARA', which belongs to ITC Limited . This decision underscores the importance of trademark protection and the legal weight given to well-established brands in the country.

Key Points of the Ruling

• Interim Injunction Granted: Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora issued an interim injunction in favor of ITC Limited and ITC Hotels.
• Trademark Infringement Claim: The case was filed by ITC, alleging trademark infringement related to their renowned Bukhara restaurant at ITC Maurya in New Delhi.
• Established Brand: ITC's Bukhara restaurant, established in the late 1970s, has been a significant revenue generator.
• Trademark Status: The 'BUKHARA' trademark has been registered since 1985.

Court's Observations

The court made several key observations in its ruling:

1. Dishonest Usage: The hotel's use of the name appeared dishonest and misleading to the court.
2. Rejected Defense: The defendant's claim that the name derived from the proprietor's surname 'Bukhari' was dismissed.
3. Prior Knowledge: The judge noted that the adoption of the name seemed to be made with full awareness of ITC's prior, well-known trademark status.

Implications of the Ruling

This decision by the Delhi High Court has significant implications for trademark protection in India:

1. It reinforces the legal protection afforded to well-established trademarks.
2. The ruling serves as a deterrent to potential trademark infringers in the hospitality and other sectors.
3. It highlights the importance for businesses to conduct thorough trademark searches before adopting brand names.

Next Steps

The court has restrained the defendant from using or imitating the 'BUKHARA' mark or any deceptively similar name. The case is scheduled to resume on April 14, 2026, where further proceedings may provide additional clarity on the extent of trademark protection and potential damages.

This ruling underscores the need for businesses to be vigilant about their intellectual property rights and the potential consequences of infringing on established trademarks. As the case progresses, it may set important precedents for trademark law in India's evolving hospitality and culinary landscape.

ITC Limited , a diversified conglomerate, has initiated a postal ballot process to seek shareholder approval for two significant board appointments. The company, known for its presence in FMCG, paperboards & packaging, agri-business, and information technology sectors, is proposing changes that could shape its leadership for the coming years.

Proposed Appointments

Appointment of Amitabh Kant as Independent Director

• Proposed tenure: Five years, effective from January 1, 2026
• Background: Retired IAS officer with over four decades of administrative experience
• Notable roles:
  • G20 Sherpa to the Prime Minister of India
  • Former CEO of NITI Aayog
  • Spearheaded initiatives like 'God's Own Country' and 'Incredible India' campaigns

Re-appointment of Hemant Malik as Wholetime Director

• Proposed tenure: Two years, effective from August 12, 2026
• Current role: Divisional Chief Executive of the Foods Business Division
• Experience: Over 36 years with ITC across multiple businesses

Remuneration Details

Voting Process

• E-voting Period: November 16 to December 15, 2025
• Result Declaration: December 16, 2025

Corporate Governance Implications

The proposed appointments reflect ITC's commitment to blending experienced leadership with fresh perspectives. Amitabh Kant's extensive administrative background, particularly in policy-making and economic reforms, could bring valuable insights to ITC's board. Meanwhile, Hemant Malik's re-appointment signifies continuity in the company's FMCG strategy, an area where he has demonstrated significant expertise.

Investor Engagement

In a related development, ITC has announced its participation in the 28th CITIC CLSA India Forum 2025, scheduled for November 17, 2025, in Mumbai. This engagement underscores the company's commitment to maintaining open lines of communication with the investment community.

As ITC navigates these leadership transitions and continues its investor outreach, shareholders and market observers will be keenly watching the impact on the company's strategic direction and performance in its diverse business segments.