THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A private company that copied Milma's design has been fined one crore rupees. A fine of one crore rupees was imposed on a private diary called 'Milnna'. The fine was imposed by the Thiruvananthapuram Principal Commercial Court. The court ordered that six percent penalty interest be paid. The court action was based on Milma's complaint.

Milma announced in a press release that a fine has been imposed on the private company that was involved in marketing products using a name and design similar to Milma's. The press release states that 'Milnna' misused Milma's design and violated trade rules. The company has been prohibited from selling products using designs or packaging similar to Milma's. The company was also ordered to pay a fine of one crore rupees, six percent penalty interest and Rs 8,18,410 as court fees.

Milma Chairman KS Mani responded after the court verdict that the case was not filed for financial gain and that Milma is a brand that has become deeply rooted in the minds of Malayalis. The milk was launched in the market under the name 'Milnna' in a manner similar to Milma. The act was a deception of the consumers. They were earlier sent a letter stating that this was not the right method. Later, when Milnna was not ready to withdraw the product, it was decided to take legal action. The court was convinced by Milma's arguments.

"We took legal action considering the inconvenience that consumers face when they buy milk claiming to be Milma and it is not of good quality. The verdict will also help others to take legal action against such wrong trends," said KS Mani.