In a significant development, the Delhi High Court has referred a trademark dispute between Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, and Dharma Productions to mediation. The case centers around the unauthorized use of the MSF trademark in a scene from the film Jigra, starring Alia Bhatt, where characters impersonate MSF members to illegally cross international borders.
MSF, a prominent humanitarian organization, filed a suit against Dharma Productions, objecting to a scene in Jigra depicting characters, portrayed as prisoners, using MSF’s identity to escape from a fictional island and enter Malaysian waters. The organization has argued that this portrayal tarnishes its image and credibility by suggesting that MSF representatives can be impersonated for illegal activities.
In its petition, MSF contended that the unauthorized use of its trademark in the film is disparaging, dilutes its brand value, and damages its reputation as an independent and impartial humanitarian entity. The organization also expressed concerns that the scene would lead to the public associating MSF with illegal border crossings, causing significant harm to its goodwill.
After hearing preliminary submissions, Justice Mini Pushkarna decided to refer the matter to mediation. The Court directed both parties to appear before the Mediation Centre on December 24, 2024, for discussions. Justice Pushkarna also stated that the case would be taken up again on January 30, 2025, if the mediation does not lead to a resolution.
MSF was represented by Advocate Shwetasree Majumder, who argued that the suit is maintainable before the Delhi High Court, noting that the film was screened in theaters in Delhi. Dharma Productions was represented by Senior Advocate Nakul Dewan.
Case: Medecins Sans Frontieres International vs Dharma Productions Private Limited And Ors – Available on LAWFYI.IO
