Google Appeals Delhi HC Order in Hindware Trademark Case
Google has challenged a Delhi High Court ruling that held it liable for trademark infringement over keyword advertising in a case involving Hindware.
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Google has appealed against a Delhi High Court ruling that found the company guilty of trademark infringement for allowing advertisers to bid for a rival company's trademark as a keyword for search advertising.
Google has argued the ruling could hurt consumers and upend the online search advertising model, according to court documents reviewed by Reuters. The company is appealing a May order requiring it to pay about $31,600 in damages, plus litigation costs.
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Dispute Over Keyword Advertising:
The case is about Google’s advertising platform, which enables businesses to bid on keywords to display sponsored search results to users.
Hindware, the maker of bathroom fittings, told Reuters that rival brands have been buying keywords tied to Hindware's trademark, leading to advertisements of other companies appearing when users search for 'Hindware' on Google.
Delhi High Court rules in favour of Hindware, holds Google liable for trademark infringement The verdict is being keenly observed as it could set the tone for interpretation of trademark rights within the digital advertisement ecosystem in India.
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Broader Implications:
The appeal comes amid a rising tide of regulatory challenges for Google in India, which has seen the company face multiple antitrust probes and legal challenges over its digital business practices.
Google is estimated to have generated $4.1 billion of gross advertising revenue in India last year, according to Reuters.
Hindware, which is present in the sanitaryware, bathroom fittings, kitchen solutions and home appliances segments through Hindware Home Innovation Limited, alleged that its competitors are unfairly taking advantage of its trademark through Google’s keyword advertising system.
