Bureau of Indian Standards vs M/s Mars Veneers and Boards and others

Updates

1. News23 Oct 2026

   Mere Possession Of Fake ISI Mark Not An Offence Without Proof Of Its Use: Kerala High Court

   The Kerala High Court recently clarified that the mere possession of spurious/fake ISI mark is no

   Explanation in simple terms

   What:

   The court decided that simply having items with a fake ISI mark is not a crime.

   Who:

   The Bureau of Indian Standards is the agency, M/s Mars Veneers and Boards and others are the accused, and the Kerala High Court is the court.

   When:

   Reported on 23 Oct 2026.

   Where:

   Kerala High Court, Kerala.

   Why:

   The court ruled that there must be proof that the mark was actually used to label goods.

   What it means:

   The court clarified that mere possession of such items is insufficient for a criminal charge.

   LiveLaw
2. News20 Oct 2026

   Mere Possession Of Object Capable Of Being Affixed With Fake ISI Mark Not Punishable Under BIS Act Without Proof Of Use: Kerala High Court

   The Court upheld the acquittal of a manufacturing firm and its partners after finding that no finished product bearing a spurious ISI mark had been detected, seized or produced.

   Explanation in simple terms

   What:

   The court ruled that just owning items that could have a fake quality seal is not illegal.

   Who:

   The Bureau of Indian Standards is the government agency, Mars Veneers and Boards is the accused business, and the Kerala High Court is the court that made the decision.

   When:

   Reported on 20 Oct 2026.

   Where:

   Kerala High Court, Kerala.

   Why:

   The court decided that the law requires proof that the fake seal was actually used on the products.

   What it means:

   The case will now proceed based on the rule that mere possession without evidence of use is not a punishable crime.

   Verdictum