Barkha Dutt wins domain dispute against Hyderabad-based entity

The Hyderabad-based cybersquatter--easyticket, Kapavarapu-- has been using a domain name-- 'barkhadutt.com' -- which was registered on January 8, 2007. Barkha Dutt approached Geneva-based WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center in September, 2009, objecting the ownership of internet site 'barkhadutt.com' by easyticket. In her complaint filed with the WIPO, Dutt contended that "her name is widely recognised by the public and any reference to 'Barkha Dutt' is instantly associated with her alone, as the renown Indian journalist and no other entity has rights to use the name."

"The complainant asserts that due to the fame associated with her name, she enjoys the status of a celebrity, and it is well-known that celebrities have the right to restrain third parties from exploiting their name and fame," according to the details available with the judgement copy. In its order, WIPO's sole panelist--Harini Narayanswamy-- ordered the transfer of disputed domain name 'barkhadutt.com' to the complainant (Barkha Dutt). The WIPO is a specialised agency of the United Nations for developing a balanced and accessible international system in the field of intellectual property rights.