The Supreme Court has appointed former Justice L. Nageswara Rao to mediate a high-profile trademark dispute between John Distilleries, which sells "Original Choice" whisky, and Allied Blenders, the maker of "Officer's Choice" whisky. Both companies have agreed to seek an amicable resolution to the matter through mediation.

The appointment of the mediator signals a proactive approach by the Supreme Court to facilitate an early resolution in this trademark clash. Deliberations are expected to begin this week. The court has directed that the mediation process be given utmost priority to ensure a swift and fair outcome.

The dispute revolves around the trademarks of the two popular whisky brands, "Original Choice" and "Officer's Choice." Trademark disputes in the alcoholic beverage industry can be complex, often involving questions of brand similarity, consumer confusion, and market impact. This mediation effort reflects a desire to avoid protracted litigation and find a mutually acceptable solution.

Justice Rao's experience as a former judge of the Supreme Court makes him well-suited to mediate this dispute. His legal acumen and understanding of trademark law are expected to be valuable assets in guiding the parties toward a settlement. Both John Distilleries and Allied Blenders have expressed their willingness to engage in the mediation process constructively.

The outcome of this mediation could set a precedent for resolving similar trademark disputes in the future. If successful, it would demonstrate the effectiveness of mediation as an alternative to litigation, saving time and resources for the parties involved. It also highlights the Supreme Court's commitment to encouraging alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.