Delhi High Court Bars Ex-Franchisee From Using Moti Mahal Mark

Justice Jyoti Singh of the Delhi High Court issued an ex-parte ad-interim injunction in favor of Moti Mahal Legendary Hospitality against Sant Foods and related defendants in a commercial suit involving post-termination use of the Moti Mahal mark. The order, dated February 25, 2026, prohibits the defendants from running any restaurant or catering business using the mark following the end of a franchise agreement.

The plaintiffs, who hold registrations for the mark across multiple classes and operate various franchises, alleged that the defendants continued operations after the limited non-exclusive license ended in September 2024. The court found a prima facie case that the defendants lacked rights to the mark once the agreement was terminated.

The ruling emphasizes that franchise permissions are limited and do not confer ongoing rights post-termination. The matter remains pending for further proceedings, with the injunction providing immediate relief to protect the registered mark.

Sources: https://www.bwlegalworld.com/article/delhi-high-court-bars-former-franchisee-from-using-moti-mahal-trademark-596654 https://insidetrade.com/daily-news/new-mpia-ruling-partially-reverses-wto-decision-eu-china-ip-dispute