Police plays pivotal role in protecting brands by acting as frontline defence against organized crime: Joint Commissioner (Tech, Cyber & Licensing), Delhi Police

Oct 25, 2024

Joint Efforts Essential to Protect Brands and Consumers from Illicit Trade, Urges Industry Leaders

 

NEW DELHI, 25 October 2024: Mr B. Shankar Jaiswal, Joint Commissioner of Police (Tech, Cyber & Licensing), Delhi Police, today said, “In recent times, Artificial Intelligence has emerged not just as a tool, but as a game-changer, enabling both brands and consumers to quickly identify threats and verify the authenticity of products with ease.”

 

Addressing FICCI CASCADE’s seminar on ‘Strategies for Brand Protection and Counterfeit Prevention’, Mr Jaiswal said, “Illicit trade including counterfeiting and smuggling is a multi-faceted global challenge, with an estimated annual cost of $1.8 trillion, undermining economies, endangering public health, and fuelling organized crime. The police, plays a pivotal role in protecting brands by acting as a frontline defence against counterfeiting and organized crime. Through proactive investigations, they not only safeguard businesses but also protect consumers and uphold the integrity of our marketplace.”

 

Mr Deep Chand, Former Special Commissioner of Police, New Delhi & Advisor, FICCI CASCADE said, “The rapid expansion of online marketplaces has opened new pathways for counterfeiters and smugglers to infiltrate global supply chains, posing serious threats to both businesses and consumers. From children’s toys to critical medical supplies, consumers are increasingly at risk of being exposed to unsafe and illegitimate products. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for stronger regulatory frameworks and more effective enforcement measures to safeguard public safety and brand integrity.”

 

A coordinated effort between brands, law enforcement agencies, and customs officials is vital, as sharing data and intelligence can significantly disrupt and dismantle counterfeit operations, curbing the growth of illicit trade, urged Mr Chand.

 

Ms Katharine Lister, Director of Worldwide Customer Trust External Relations at Amazon, said, “Through partnerships with campaigns like Mission GraHAQ, we've reached nearly 3 million people, educating them on safe online shopping practices and the risks of counterfeit goods. Collaboration across the private sector, customs agencies, and law enforcement is essential to stopping counterfeiters early in the supply chain and preventing them from crossing borders.”

 

Mr Suvashis Choudhary, Former Joint Commissioner, Chief Security Commissioner, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, Delhi and Think Tank Member, FICCI CASCADE said, “By enhancing collaboration with enforcement agencies, the challenges of global trade and counterfeiting can be more effectively addressed. Collective efforts and workshops play an important role in driving meaningful change and creating a lasting positive impact.”

 

Other panellists included Mr Sumit Kapoor, Brand Protection Strategic Partnership Manager, Amazon APAC; Mr Ameet Dutta, Co-Chair- IP Committee and Partner, Saikrishna & Associates; Mr Arindom Hazarika, Senior Counsel, Trademarks & Brand Protection, South Asia; Ms Swarnika Rawat, Brand Protection Unit Operations – Lead, Beiersdorf; Mr Pavan Duggal, Advocate, Supreme Court of India, Expert Authority in Cyberlaw, Cyber Security Law & Emerging Tech Law; Mr. John Cabeca, U.S. IP Counsellor for South Asia, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), American Embassy; Mr Anuj Bedi, Senior Counsel Brand Protection Indian sub-continent and Middle East, Puma Sports India Pvt Ltd.; Ms Atika Prasad, Intellectual Property Attorney, Wahl Clipper Corporation and Ms Mrunmaiy Abroal, Head of External Relations, Customer Trust, Amazon India

 

Over the years, CASCADE has consistently been at the forefront of addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by trade in smuggled, counterfeit, and pass-off goods. Through its proactive approach, CASCADE has brought together stakeholders from across industries, government, and law enforcement to tackle the widespread implications of these illegal activities on the economy and society. By raising awareness through campaigns, facilitating knowledge sharing, and driving legislative advocacy, the community has played a crucial role in highlighting the economic losses, health risks, and security threats associated with illicit trade.

 

With this objective in mind, FICCI CASCADE organized a seminar to raise awareness about the critical issue of counterfeiting. The sessions featured experts discussing on various facets of this growing menace and sharing their insights on strategies to curb it.