In a recent development, the Supreme Court has drawn attention to the substantial backlog of cases in Maharashtra courts, emphasizing the crucial role lawyers play in ensuring a fair and efficient judicial process. This observation came to light during a specific case involving a lawyer who had persistently raised objections during trial proceedings, causing significant delays. The bench, consisting of Justices Abhay S Oka and Rajesh Bindal, noted the gravity of the backlog issue, particularly in Maharashtra's trial courts, as evident from data on the National Judicial Data Grid.
The Supreme Court expressed concern that without the cooperation of lawyers, it would be challenging to address the mounting caseload. The bench stressed that during trials, members of the legal profession are expected to act as officers of the court, conducting themselves reasonably and fairly. It underlined that fairness is a fundamental aspect of effective advocacy and that excessive objections during cross-examinations can disrupt the smooth progression of trials.
The Court's comments were made in the context of a copyright case involving sellers of country liquor. One party sold liquor under the brand "Tango Punch," while the other used the name "Two Punch Premium." The appellant, the owner of Tango Punch, appealed to the Supreme Court after the Bombay High Court stayed a trial court's order in their favor.
Ultimately, the Supreme Court dismissed the appellant's appeal, finding that they had failed to establish their product's goodwill through sales figures and promotional expenses. Additionally, the appellant unconditionally withdrew objections related to the alleged copyright infringement by the defendant, Two Punch Premium.
The bench supported the High Court's decision to grant a stay on the trial court's decree, concluding that the High Court's order was well-founded and dismissing the appellant's appeal.
The appellant, Brihan Karan Sugar Syndicate Private Limited, was represented by advocates Rahul Chitnis, Dinesh Y Mali, Kamlesh Y Mali, Yogesh K Ahirrao, and Chander Shekhar Ashri.
Advocates Suhaskumar Kadam and Prashant Kadam, briefed by Black & White Solicitors, appeared on behalf of the respondents, Yashwantrao Mohite Krushna Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana.
Click Here to: Download/View Related File
TAGS: Supreme Court pendency Maharashtra courts lawyers fair conduct trial delays copyright case Two Punch Premium Tango Punch dismissal appellant respondents.
