Trademark: HC Grants Protection to Reliance Jio against Jiocabs.com, Read Judgment

The Bombay High Court granted ad-interim relief to Reliance Industries Limited in a trademark infringement and passing off matter, restraining taxi service operators from using the well-known “JIO ” brand name and associated domain. The Court observed that the unauthorized use of a registered and well-known trademark, even after notice, undermines the rights of the brand owner and causes potential injury to the commercial reputation of the plaintiff.

The dispute arose when Reliance Industries Limited, the registered proprietor of the “JIO” trademark across multiple classes, discovered that certain taxi operators were conducting business under the name “JIO” and using the domain “www.jiocabs.com.” The plaintiff alleged that the defendants’ actions were identical or deceptively similar to its registered trademark and original artistic works. Despite service of proceedings, the defendants continued to use the mark and domain name, creating confusion in the market. The plaintiff approached the Court seeking urgent intervention through ad-interim relief.

The counsel for the plaintiff submitted that the plaintiff had prior registrations of the “JIO” trademark starting from 2011 across multiple classes, including transport and travel services. The counsel emphasized that the defendants were offering taxi services under the “JIO” brand in multiple cities and were actively using WhatsApp and other digital channels for promotion. He further noted that although the defendants changed their business name post-service, the domain name continued to reflect the infringing mark, which warranted immediate protection of the plaintiff’s brand and artistic work.

The Court examined the materials on record, including the plaintiff’s registered trademarks and original artwork, alongside the defendants’ website and promotional content. The Bench noted the defendants’ post-service attempt to change their business name but highlighted that the continued use of the domain name still constituted infringement.

The Court observed, “A strong prima facie case has been made out for grant of urgent ad-interim interlocutory reliefs. The continued usage of a well-known and protected brand name would indeed cause grave injury, and even the balance of convenience favors the plaintiff.” The Court also reiterated that if the defendants wished to vary or vacate the interim relief, they could appear before the Court to present their case.

Accordingly, the Court granted ad-interim relief restraining Defendant Nos. 1 and 2, their agents, and associates from using the “JIO” mark, impugned domain name, or any deceptively similar mark or artwork in relation to taxi or other services. The Court allowed filing of affidavits in reply within four weeks and rejoinder within two weeks. The matter is listed for further consideration of interim relief on November 28, 2025.

Case Title: Reliance Industries Limited Vs. Asif Ahmed & Ors.

Case No.: Interim Application (L) No. 28031 of 2025

Coram: Justice Somasekhar Sundaresan

Advocate for Petitioner: Adv. Vinod A. Bhagat, Arjun T. Bhagat & Co.

Advocate for Respondent: None

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