Author: Dr. Kalyan Kankanala

Dr. Kalyan Kankanala is a practicing intellectual property (IP) attorney and author. He is a senior partner at BananaIP Counsels, a well-known IP firm based in Bangalore, India. His writings cover a range of topics relating to IP law, business, and policy, and he has authored several books and articles in the field. He has been contributing to this blog since 2007. The views expressed here are his own and do not represent those of BananaIP Counsels or its members.

High Court remands Patent Office’s Legally Infirm and Unreasoned Order

The Delhi High Court remanded a Patent Office order in a patent grant case for being legally infirm and unreasoned. The judgment underscores the importance of detailed reasoning and adherence to the principles of natural justice in patent proceedings.

Draft National Policy for Persons with Disabilities – Comments and Suggestions

This article reviews the Draft National Policy for Persons with Disabilities, offering structured comments and recommendations for its improvement. It covers aspects such as housing, professional opportunities, higher education, entrepreneurship, and private sector responsibilities, with an emphasis on accessibility and non-discrimination.

Delhi High Court seeks Prof. Arul George Scaria’s Opinion on use of Music in Marriage Ceremonies

The Delhi High Court has requested Professor Arul George Scaria’s expert opinion on whether music use in marriage ceremonies is exempt under Section 52 of the Copyright Act. This decision will have important consequences for music licensing and copyright enforcement in India.

Indian IP Office issues Accessibility Guidelines for Persons with Disabilities

The Indian IP Office has released guidelines to enhance accessibility and provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. These measures aim to support inclusive participation in IP matters and ensure compliance with recent legal standards.

Transforming Sanitation through Patented Toilets

This post discusses five innovative patented toilets in India, each addressing unique sanitation challenges, from automation to accessibility and water conservation. The analysis underscores the importance of intellectual property in advancing public health solutions, as highlighted by the Indian Patent Office and Swachh Bharat Mission.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Inventions and Patents

Dr. Kalyan C. Kankanala explores the challenges and trends in artificial intelligence patents, with particular attention to India’s legal and patent office landscape. The article provides an objective analysis of patentability, inventorship, and policy gaps in AI innovation.

CASE BRIEF : Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited vs Cipla Limited

The Madras High Court addressed trademark and copyright infringement claims in Sun Pharmaceutical vs Cipla, focusing on drug packaging similarities. The interim injunction granted to Cipla was upheld, balancing public interest against intellectual property rights.

In Support of Prof. Arul Scaria on Compulsory Licensing for COVID Vaccines, Medicines, Diagnostics and other Technologies

The article examines India’s policy on compulsory licensing for COVID-related medical technologies, echoing Prof. Arul Scaria’s critique of current government inaction. It highlights the legal and historical basis for compulsory licensing and argues for its strategic use to ensure public access to vaccines and medicines.

Is today a Happy World IP Day?

This post analyses World IP Day amid the COVID-19 pandemic, questioning whether intellectual property systems have supported or hindered access to vital medicines. It highlights the limited measures taken globally and India’s cautious approach to compulsory licensing.

Indian IP Office and Website Accessibility for Persons with Blindness – Order of CCPD

This post examines the Indian IP Office’s website accessibility for persons with blindness in light of the RPwD Act and CCPD’s order. It details the legal obligations, actions taken, and the importance of compliance with accessibility standards.