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Only LIDCOM, LIDKAR hold legal ownership of Kolhapuri chappal GI tag, say state corporations

The clarification comes in the wake of social media uproar and legal challenges following Prada’s Spring/Summer 2025 menswear collection, showcased in June this year.

It was pointed out that leather sandals worn by a model during the show bore striking resemblance to the traditional Kolhapuri chappal — an iconic handcrafted footwear style originating from Maharashtra and Karnataka, and protected under India’s GI Act. (File Photo)

Amid the recent controversy over alleged design imitation of Kolhapuri leather sandals by Italian luxury brand Prada, two state-run corporations — LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd, Maharashtra) and LIDKAR (Dr Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd, Karnataka) — have issued a joint statement affirming that they are the only officially registered owners of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Kolhapuri chappals.

The clarification comes in the wake of social media uproar and legal challenges following Prada’s Spring/Summer 2025 menswear collection, showcased in June this year.

In response to the alleged imitation, a group of lawyers had filed a PIL in the Bombay High Court, accusing Prada of violating the intellectual property associated with the GI tag.

However, in an order dated July 16, 2025, the court dismissed the petition, ruling that only the registered holders of the GI tag — in this case, LIDCOM and LIDKAR — have the legal standing to initiate civil proceedings in such matters.

Also Read | Who makes the Kolhapuri chappal? Amid Prada row, a look at the artisans behind the iconic footwear

In a joint press release issued after the verdict, LIDCOM Managing Director Prerna Deshbhatar and LIDKAR Managing Director K M Vasundhara stated that neither individuals nor organisations other than the two corporations have the authority to engage in any legal communication, representation, or dialogue with international entities such as Prada regarding the Kolhapuri chappal.

“The GI tag is not merely a legal certificate — it represents centuries of tradition and craftsmanship,” the release stated. “Our objective is not only to protect this geographic identity but also to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of thousands of local leather artisans who carry forward this legacy.”

Vallabh Ozarkar

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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