Haryana-based Alchem International has moved the division bench of the Delhi High Court, challenging a recent single-judge order that restrains it from manufacturing, marketing, or dealing in pharmaceutical products under the name “Alchem” or any deceptively similar branding to “Alkem”—a trademark held by Mumbai-based Alkem Laboratories.

The injunction prohibits Alchem from using its name in connection with medicines or medicinal products until further orders. Alchem’s appeal seeks to overturn the interim ban and restore its ability to use its brand amidst the ongoing trademark dispute.

The contested single-judge ruling found that the “Alchem” mark is phonetically and visually similar to “Alkem”, thereby likely to cause confusion among consumers, and granted interim relief in favour of Alkem. However, Alchem argues that the restriction unduly curtails its business operations and contends that proper consideration of its prior use and market presence was not fully addressed.

As the matter is now before the division bench, both parties are expected to present arguments on infringement, the doctrine of acquiescence, and proportionality of relief, with broader implications for trademark protection in India’s pharmaceutical sector.