IIT Delhi challenges use of its name by coaching centres

The Delhi High Court has sought the response of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on a plea by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) against coupling of its name with that of coaching centre FIITJEE at the metro station near the engineering institute.

‘Tarnishing image’

Justice Rajiv Shakdher, before whom the matter came up for hearing, has issued notice to the DMRC and FIITJEE. He sought their stands on the IIT’s plea that the ‘co-branding’ has misled people to think that both have partnered together.

The IIT, in its plea, has sought directions to the Delhi metro to not use its name in conjunction with that of FIITJEE, claiming that it is tarnishing the image of the premier engineering institute.

The institute said that due to the coupling of the names, it has been receiving queries and complaints from aspiring candidates, parents and even alumni, asking if FIITJEE was the ‘official’ coaching partner for those aspiring to gain entrance to the IIT.

The Delhi metro has been since 2014 auctioning naming rights of several of its stations to generate revenue.