BCCI declines proposal by Champak periodical for resolving trademark dispute concerning the mechanized canine associated with the IPL.
The ongoing trademark infringement case between Delhi Press and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revolves around the use of the name 'Champak' for a robotic dog during the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The dispute began in April 2025 when Delhi Press, the publisher of the children's magazine Champak, alleged that the BCCI's use of the name infringed on their trademark. Champak, a magazine published since 1968, is a well-known brand in the children's publishing industry.
However, the BCCI has refused to enter into mediation with Delhi Press, stating that numerous commercial considerations are involved in using the name 'Champak'. Advocate Tanmay Mehta, who appeared for BCCI, stated that they cannot give an undertaking to stop using the name due to these commercial considerations.
Despite the BCCI's refusal to mediate, Delhi Press has expressed a willingness to drop the case if the BCCI agrees not to use the name 'Champak' in future IPL seasons. Advocate Amit Gupta, representing Delhi Press, stated this in court, adding that they remain open to mediation.
The case, which is being heard at the Delhi High Court, has been listed for further consideration in September. The court has directed both parties to complete their pleadings in preparation for the upcoming hearing.
During the court proceedings, Gupta argued that the IPL's marketing of the robotic dog showed commercial use, as the mark is registered and its unauthorized use causes dilution. In response, Mehta argued that he will make out a case against Delhi Press.
Kanu Agrawal appeared for BCCI in the court proceedings, along with Mehta. The Court asked how the use of "Champak" amounted to commercial exploitation or unfair advantage. To this, Gupta responded that the unauthorized use of a registered trademark is a violation, regardless of the context.
The current status of the case is that both parties are preparing their pleadings for the hearing in September. The purpose of the suit, as contended by Mehta, is to settle the matter with BCCI for money, given their larger size and influence. However, the outcome of the case will be decided by the court in due course.
[1] The Indian Express. (2025, April 1). Delhi High Court case: BCCI refuses to enter into mediation with Delhi Press over use of 'Champak' for IPL robotic dog. Retrieved from https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/bcci-refuses-to-enter-into-mediation-with-delhi-press-over-use-of-champak-for-ipl-robotic-dog-7878605/
[2] Hindustan Times. (2025, April 1). BCCI vs Delhi Press: Trademark dispute over 'Champak' name for IPL robotic dog. Retrieved from https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/cricket/bcci-vs-delhi-press-trademark-dispute-over-champak-name-for-ipl-robotic-dog-101676334004831.html
[3] The Economic Times. (2025, September 1). Delhi High Court lists BCCI vs Delhi Press case for further consideration in September. Retrieved from https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/delhi-high-court-lists-bcci-vs-delhi-press-case-for-further-consideration-in-september/articleshow/101676334004831.cms
- Interested parties might find the ongoing legal battle between Delhi Press and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) noteworthy, as it pertains to sports-betting regulations, given that BCCI's refusal to mediate suggests potential commercial interests involved, beyond the children's magazine industry.
- In the sports-betting arena, this trademark infringement case between Delhi Press and BCCI could set a precedent, as the court's decision could impact future cases involving the unauthorized use of trademarks in commercial settings, such as sports events like the Indian Premier League (IPL).
