Ecuador firm wants to sell rice in the name of Gandhi

“Somebody from a law firm in Ecuador informed me about the attempt… I immediately filed an application before the appropriate authority to prevent this company from commercially exploiting Mahatma Gandhi’s name. The company has already said that it would stop using the Mahatma’s photo on the logo. But it is insisting that it is within its right to name its rice after Gandhi,” said Bhasin.

In his application,Bhasin has asserted that Munoz’s action is unlawful and hurts the sentiments of Indians. He has said the company’s attempt is part of a design to use the Mahatma’s name and image for petty commercial gains since he is revered around the world.

Under Section 3 of Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act,1950,nobody can use the name of Mahatma or his photo unless permitted to do so by the Government of India — something that has never been done for a commercial venture till date. However,what makes Bhasin’s case very important is the fact that this law applies only to India and to Indian citizens outside India.