Cab Operators Prohibited from Using ‘Jio’ Brand After Bombay HC Order

The Bombay High Court has issued an interim injunction restraining a group of cab operators from using the ‘Jio’ trademark, which belongs to Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL). The decision comes after RIL filed a suit alleging trademark infringement in a case concerning the unauthorised use of its brand name and logo.

Court Restrains Use of ‘Jio’ Trademark

According to RIL’s suit, the defendants were operating taxi services in Dehradun and Delhi using the ‘Jio’ name and a logo that closely resembled RIL’s branding. Justice Somasekhar Sundaresan, while hearing the matter, noted that the company had established a strong prima facie case demonstrating infringement of a well-known and legally protected trademark.

The Court stated that continued use of such a brand could lead to significant harm and confusion among the public. Emphasising the need to protect registered trademarks, the Court issued an interim order restraining the cab operators from using the ‘Jio’ name, similar marks, or any related artwork during the course of the suit.

Arguments and Court Observations

RIL’s legal counsel informed the Court that the defendants appeared to have changed their name after being served with the legal notice. It was also stated that the defendants’ website, which earlier used the ‘Jio’ branding, had been modified and now redirects to a different domain unrelated to the original cab services.

Despite these modifications, the Court noted that the domain name remained under the control of the defendants. Their absence from the proceedings was also highlighted, with no representatives appearing before the Court to present their case.

Interim Injunction and Next Steps

Considering the evidence and the defendants’ lack of response, the Court granted an interim injunction in favour of RIL. The order prevents the cab operators from continuing their taxi services under the ‘Jio’ name or any deceptively similar identity that could mislead customers or exploit the goodwill associated with the established brand. The matter has been scheduled for its next hearing on November 28, 2025.

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Conclusion

The Court’s direction underscores the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and ensuring that recognised trademarks are not misused in ways that may mislead consumers or dilute their distinct identity.

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