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Issues involved: Trademark infringement, well-known trademark protection, domain name usage, corporate name usage, ex parte proceedings.
Trademark Infringement: The plaintiffs sought to restrain the defendant from using the domain and corporate names with the word AGILENT, claiming ownership of multiple trademarks under different classes. The defendant, a construction company, incorporated after the plaintiff, was found to be using a domain name similar to the plaintiff's trademark. The court held that the plaintiff's trademark AGILENT qualified as a "Well Known Trademark" and granted a permanent injunction against the defendant from using the trademark or any deceptively similar mark. Well-Known Trademark Protection: The plaintiffs established the reputation and extensive use of the trademark AGILENT globally, with numerous registrations in various countries. The court acknowledged the plaintiff's long history of innovation, global presence, and social responsibility efforts, concluding that AGILENT qualified as a well-known trademark under the Trademarks Act, 1999. Domain and Corporate Name Usage: Despite the defendant's business falling in a different class than the plaintiff's registrations, the court found that the defendant's use of the word AGILENT would provide an unfair advantage detrimental to the plaintiff's distinctive character and reputation. The defendant's conduct of not responding to legal notices or the suit indicated an attempt to benefit from the plaintiff's goodwill, leading to the grant of a permanent injunction. Ex Parte Proceedings: The defendants failed to appear in court, leading to ex parte proceedings. Citing a previous judgment, the court emphasized that in such cases, suits can be disposed of based on the plaintiff's evidence when the defendant chooses not to contest. The court granted a decree for permanent injunction in favor of the plaintiffs due to the defendant's non-contestation. Companies Act Compliance: The court noted that Section 20 of the Companies Act, 1956 prohibits registration of a company name identical or resembling an existing registered trademark. In this case, the court found the defendant's name and domain usage infringing on the plaintiff's trademark rights, justifying the injunction granted against the defendant. Conclusion: A decree for permanent injunction was passed in favor of the plaintiffs, restraining the defendant from using the trademark AGILENT or any deceptively similar mark in its business name, domain name, or any other trade name. The defendant was given three months to rectify its name, failing which compulsory steps for name change would be initiated. The plaintiffs were also granted liberty to inform the Registrar of Companies about the court's order for necessary actions.
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