PROTECTING IP RIGHTS WITH JOHN DOE ORDERS: CASE STUDIES AND LEGAL INSIGHTS
INTRODUCTION In today's globalized and highly digitized world, protecting intellectual property (I.P.) has become increasingly complex. With the proliferation of the internet, online platforms, e-commerce, and O.T.T. platforms, I.P. owners face unprecedented challenges in enforcing their rights against infringers who often operate under the cover of anonymity. Whether counterfeit goods sold on online marketplaces, pirated films distributed through illegal websites, or trademark violations by unknown entities, I.P. holders frequently encounter situations where the infringer's identity is unknown or difficult to ascertain. The traditional legal approach of suing a named defendant becomes ineffective in such scenarios, creating a need for a more flexible solution. This is where the concept of John Doe orders (also known as Ashok Kumar orders in India) comes into play. These orders are issued by courts to prevent unknown defendants from committing further infringements of i...