Magazine Files Legal Action Against BCCI for Unauthorized Use of Its Name on Robot Dog; Web Ablaze with Laughter
The latest bit of chaos in the IPL (Indian Premier League) isn't about a six or a catch, but a four-legged tech marvel! Unsurprisingly named Champak, this AI-powered robot dog has players and spectators in a tizzy. But, it's not the impressive tricks this digital beast can do that's grabbing headlines; it's all about the trademark showdown!
Here's the deal: Delhi Press Patra Prakashan Pvt Ltd, the publishers of the renowned children's comic book Champak, filed a lawsuit against the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) for allegedly nicking their brand name for the IPL's newest entertainment feature. The feud has landed the BCCI right smack in the middle of a trademark infringement case!
The lawsuit argues that the robotic dog's moniker, Champak, has caused "irreparable harm" to the magazine, diluted its brand, tarnished its goodwill, and enriched the BCCI unfairly. According to the papers filed, this violation constitutes "dilution by tarnishment," damaging the distinctiveness and favorable public perception that the magazine has carefully nurtured for decades[1].
However, during the hearing, Senior Advocate J Sai Deepak, representing the BCCI, argued that Champak is also the name of a flower, and the public associates it with TV series characters rather than the magazine. Despite this, the court didn't grant interim relief to halt the use of the name for the robot dog at this point[2].
The case has now been adjourned until July 9,2025, and the BCCI has been asked to provide written submissions in response to the lawsuit. The public, however, continues to be divided. Some can't fathom how the magazine owners could be the original copyright owners of the name, while others joke about the lawsuit being the next battle on the horizon for Champak Magazine[3].
So, it seems the robot dog's exciting debut at IPL has not only shocked the cricket world but also stirred up a trademark row. Let's wait and see what happens next! Remember, folks: it's not always about sixes and wickets; sometimes it's about the battle of the brands[4]![5]
[1] Latest update: Delhi High Court issues notice to BCCI in trademark infringement case involving AI-generated robot dog
[2] IPL 2021: Trademark controversy at IPL – Delightful News
[3] Meme: If IPL was taxed to fund research...: IISc professor flags Rs 15,000 cr earned by BCCI in 3 years
[4] Is BCCI trying to make a comeback as an AI-powered four-legged robot?
[5] Delhi HC asks BCCI to file written statement on Champak case
- The BCCI could potentially be expanding its footprint in the technology sector with their AI-powered robot dog named 'Champak', reminiscent of a Marvel character or even a famous flower.
- Despite the court not granting the interim relief, Delhi Press Patra Prakashan Pvt Ltd is determined to make the BCCI unjustly finance their 'Champak' magazine through the IPL's robot dog.
- In the world of cricket, finance, and brand battles, the sports community is contemplating if the BCCI's AI-robot 'Champak' might be the next 'Defi' in the market, taking the spotlight away from wickets and sixes.
- As the court battle looms, the ‘Four’-legged Marvel (or Champak) is not just threatening to turn the tables in the sports world, but is also causing a stir in the finance sector with its influence on trademark rights.
- The saga of Champak, from flower name to children's comic book name, and now as an AI-powered robot for the IPL, seems to prove that trademark infringement can indeed be as unpredictable as a cricket match's final over.
