CEPT University has achieved an important legal victory in a trademark dispute involving the unauthorized use of its registered brand name. The Ahmedabad Commercial Court gave its decision on May 8, ruling in favor of the university.
Instead of a long trial, the trademark dispute was settled through court-directed mediation, with both sides reaching a friendly agreement.
Under the mutual agreement recorded in court, the defendants-including several individuals and CEPT University alumni-have agreed to stop using the CEPT trademark permanently. This covers the trade name and variants like CEPTEVENTS, CEPTEVENTS.COM, or any similar wordmark.
“This includes any direct or indirect use by themselves, their affiliates, or through any representatives, partners or associates,” said Jatin Trivedi, Advocate for CEPT University.
The defendants have acknowledged the university’s statutory and common law rights over its registered trademarks. These rights apply particularly to educational and related services.
In line with the settlement terms, the defendants have already stopped using the infringing mark. They’ve begun operating under a completely new brand identity.
The six defendants-Tushar Mansukhlal Radadiya, Drashti Patel, Kavan Brawala, Sagar Vadher, Maharshi Patel and Karan Makwana-operated as Common Events Planning Team (CEPT). They also organised Mandli (garba) events.
Trademark protection
Legal experts stress the importance of checking whether a brand name is already in use before adopting it. This basic principle applies to everyone seeking to establish trademark rights.
“If you adopt a mark that already exists and build its recognition, you might have to give it up regardless of your efforts,” warned Trivedi, an intellectual property expert.
Referring to this case, he added, “By accepting the claim, they’ve rightly acknowledged the University’s rights. Had they not, a court order before or during their event could have led to major financial loss and damaged their reputation.”
Uni welcomes resolution
Anita Hiranandani, the university registrar, shared her relief over the outcome. “We’re glad the trademark dispute has been settled peacefully. CEPT University values the achievements of our alumni, and it was difficult for us to be in conflict with them,” she said.
“We’re glad the matter has been settled mutually,” she continued. “We wish all our alumni the very best in their professional and business ventures,” highlighting the institution’s ongoing support despite the legal proceedings.