‘KSRTC’ trademark not assigned to Kerala, gross misunderstanding by neighbouring State, say K’taka officials

Bengaluru: Officials in the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) have clarified that the ‘KSRTC’ trademark has not been assigned to Kerala by the Central Trade Marks Registry.

Shivayogi Kalasad, the Managing Director of the Corporation has said that no such notice or order has yet been issued by the Central Trade Marks Registry.

“We also heard the news that Kerala SRTC intends to issue notice to the KSRTC or the Karnataka government. Such notice shall be answered and legal action would be taken to protect our rights,” he added.

Another official from the Corporation explained, “Usually an application for a trademark is required to be applied through an agency. KSRTC submitted an application in 2010 and obtained the trademark in 2013 which is valid till 2023. Similarly, Kerala SRTC has applied for the trademark in 2019 through an agency for which they might have received a certificate. The confusion may have been caused by Kerala misunderstanding the certificate as an official trademark.”

Transport Minister Lakshman Savadi said, “The use of the KSRTC brand will continue as usual. There is no need to worry even if the Kerala government makes any statement in this regard. The State government will fight and take legal action if necessary.”

On Friday, soon after the news that the KSRTC brand will now be used by Kerala, a full-blown Tweet war started: