The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL) has filed a formal police complaint with Mumbai authorities, seeking the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) in response to recent allegations made by Macrotech Developers. Macrotech, a publicly listed company led by Abhishek Lodha, accused HoABL of fabricating documents to unlawfully exploit the 'Lodha' brand and its registered trademark.
The Allegations and HoABL’s Response
In its complaint, HoABL expressed strong suspicion that the accusations against it were part of a malicious campaign aimed at defaming the company. The firm claims that the allegations of forgery are motivated by an attempt to tarnish its reputation. HoABL, led by Abhinandan Lodha, filed its complaint against unknown individuals, requesting an investigation into the matter.
Macrotech Developers, which has been embroiled in a long-standing family dispute with HoABL, moved the Bombay High Court earlier this year to prevent HoABL from using the 'Lodha' name in real estate development. Macrotech contended that it had never authorized HoABL to use the family name, claiming trademark infringement based on a 2023 agreement that restricted such use.
The Controversial Documents and Name Changes
The latest allegations stem from HoABL's efforts to rename several group companies using the 'Lodha' name. HoABL claims that it initially sought approval from Lodha Ventures, a related group company, to make these name changes. However, the applications were initially rejected by the Registrar of Companies (ROC). HoABL later discovered that someone had resubmitted the applications using forged documents, and the ROC eventually approved the name changes.
HoABL insists that it is the victim of a deliberate attempt to cause harm, claiming that its companies tried to follow legal procedures but were misled by fraudulent actions. The complaint submitted to the police includes all relevant documentation and requests a thorough investigation into the forgery claims.
Family Dispute Over the 'Lodha' Brand
The conflict between the two companies is rooted in a family dispute. Abhinandan Lodha, who left Macrotech Developers in 2015, has argued that his companies were set up under a family settlement, which included an understanding not to use the 'Lodha' name independently in the real estate business. Despite this, Macrotech claims that HoABL is improperly exploiting the brand, which it maintains ownership of.
The dispute has led to legal battles over the rights to use the 'Lodha' name, with Macrotech seeking to stop HoABL from using the trademark in any of its real estate ventures. Macrotech alleges that the use of the name by HoABL infringes on the trademark agreement between the two entities.
What’s Next for HoABL and Macrotech Developers?
As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome of the police investigation and the ongoing court case will determine whether HoABL will be allowed to continue using the 'Lodha' name in its real estate developments. The situation highlights the complexities of family businesses and intellectual property rights, especially when disputes arise over the ownership and use of valuable brand names.
Both sides have expressed a desire to resolve the matter amicably, but the conflict over the use of the ‘Lodha’ name remains unresolved, with each party firmly standing by its legal claims. As the case progresses, it is expected that further developments will shape the future of the brand and its use in the real estate market.
In conclusion, the dispute between HoABL and Macrotech Developers over the 'Lodha' brand name is far from over, with both companies seeking to protect their interests. The police investigation into the forgery allegations will likely play a crucial role in determining the next steps in this high-profile family and corporate legal battle.