September 12, 2026

Section 20 – Geographical Indications Act: No Action for Infringement of Unregistered Geographical Indication

The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 — back to Table of Contents

Section 20. No action for infringement of unregistered geographical indication

No one may bring proceedings to prevent, or claim damages for, infringement of a geographical indication that has not been registered under this Act. Registration is therefore a precondition for the statutory infringement remedy.

This does not, however, close off the common-law action of passing off — a claim based on unregistered goodwill remains available even without registration, and the Act preserves that separate right of action and its remedies.