NEW DELHI, INDIA, March 16, 2003: Does the display of Gods and Goddesses on commercial goods like tobacco products hurt the religious sentiments of people? No, says the office of Trademarks Registry. In an affidavit filed before the Delhi High Court, the Trademarks Registry has said that Hinduism has innumerable Gods and Goddesses and to put them all in the schedule of Emblems and Names (prevention of improper use) Act, would be “misconceived and unsustainable.” This decision was a response to a petition filed in the High Court, which called for immediate withdrawal of trademarks that hurt the religious sentiments of the people. The petition, filed by Sanjeev Kumar Chaswal, submitted that the Registrar of Trademarks has granted registration using Lord Ganesha, Lord Krishna, Lord Siva and others for products like tobacco, zarda, jute products etc. “This is an insult to the sanctity of the revered Gods,” the petition said. The Trademarks Registry’s affidavit stated, “The Emblems and Names Act, of 1950 does not envisage inclusion of names of Gods and Goddesses in the schedule of the act. Only emblems of national importance and of secular institutions are sought to be protected.”
A daily summary of world news for Hindus and non-Hindus alike