Suzuki sues 10 Indian firms

Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, on Thursday said it has filed suits in the Delhi High Court against ten companies for using the brand 'Suzuki' as trademark or part of their corporate names.

These companies are in various businesses like finance, textile manufacture, spinning and weaving. Through the suits, SMC has sought injunction against the use of the word 'Suzuki' by these companies, a statement by Maruti Suzuki, the company's Indian subsidiary, said.

SMC is the owner of the registered trademark 'Suzuki' and the ten companies, against whom SMC has filed the suits, were using the word 'Suzuki' without SMC's permission, it said.

"These companies have no connection with SMC and the use of the word 'Suzuki' by them creates the impression that these companies are connected to SMC," the statement said.

It said suits against the companies were filed as the companies were continuing to use the word 'Suzuki' despite cease and desist notices.

In India, SMC has granted license to Maruti Udyog Limited (for cars) and Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited (for motorcycles and other two wheelers) to use the 'Suzuki' brand name.