NCLAT Requests IndusInd International Holdings to Provide Timeline for Ending Reliance Trademark Use

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has instructed IndusInd International Holdings Ltd (IIHL), a Hinduja group firm, to provide a timeline for ceasing the use of the Reliance trademark for Reliance Capital. This directive follows an appeal by Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Ventures Pvt Ltd (ADAVL) seeking to halt the trademark's use post-acquisition.

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IIHL's counsel informed NCLAT that the process of changing Reliance Capital's name is underway and expected to conclude in eight weeks. The tribunal, however, requested a specific timeline from IIHL regarding when they will stop using the Reliance brand name. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on November 21.

Reliance Trademark Dispute

ADAVL had previously approached the Mumbai bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) with a similar plea, which was dismissed. Dissatisfied with this decision, ADAVL escalated the issue to NCLAT. The appellate tribunal has now asked IIHL to return with clear instructions on the brand name usage by November 21.

In its order dated October 17, 2025, the NCLAT bench, comprising Justice Mohammad Faiz Alam Khan and Naresh Salecha, noted that IIHL's senior counsel highlighted the ongoing process of adopting a new brand name. The tribunal expects IIHL to provide definitive instructions on discontinuing the Reliance name by the next hearing date.

Background of Reliance Capital's Insolvency

Reliance Capital was placed under administration by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in November 2021 due to governance issues and payment defaults linked to the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group. Nageswara Rao Y was appointed as administrator and invited bids for the company's acquisition in February 2022.

In April 2023, IIHL emerged as the successful bidder for Reliance Capital under the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP), offering Rs 9,650 crore. Additionally, IIHL contributed Rs 200 crore to enhance Reliance General Insurance's solvency beyond the bid amount.

The NCLAT's decision to seek clarity on IIHL's use of the Reliance trademark underscores ongoing legal complexities surrounding corporate acquisitions and branding rights. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar disputes in India's corporate landscape.

With inputs from PTI