designs
Crocs v. Bata: Delhi HC Imposes Heavy Litigation Costs
In a significant ruling for Indian commercial litigation, the Delhi High Court ordered Crocs Inc to pay over Rs. 24 lakhs in litigation costs to Bata India. Following the cancellation of Crocs' design registration for lack of novelty, Justice Prathiba M. Singh emphasized that costs must follow the event, reflecting actual expenditure rather than symbolic amounts. This decision underscores the shift in Indian courts toward penalizing frivolous IP litigation. It serves as a stern warning to rights holders that pursuing weak design infringement claims now carries substantial financial consequences.