Representation on Commercial Use of “POSTMAN” Name and Image

ALL INDIA POSTAL EMPLOYEES UNION POSTMEN AND MTS CENTRAL HEAD QUARTERS

17/3D, Type-III, P & T Quarters, Kali Bari Marg, New Delhi-110001 Web: www.p4chq.blogspot.com Email: aipeup4chq@gmail.com

No. P-IV/CHQ-Org/2026-27 Dated: 16th September 2026

To 

The Secretary, Department of Posts, Dak Bhawan, New Delhi-110001

Sub. Representation regarding commercial use of "POSTMAN" name and image.

Respected Sir,

This CHQ wishes to draw your kind attention to the matter concerning the commercial use of the historic designation "POSTMAN" along with the depiction of a uniformed Postman wearing postal cap and carrying a postal bag containing letters on a commercially marketed rice bag.

A 30 kg rice bag marketed under the brand name “POSTMAN - LACHKARI VADA KOLAM SORTEX RICE”, manufactured by M/s Ladhani Foods, Gondia, Maharashtra, has come to our notice. The prominent use of the word "POSTMAN" along with the visual representation of a uniformed postal employee is strikingly reminiscent of the traditional identity of the Postman of India Post.

The Postman has been one of the most recognisable faces of the Department of Posts for generations and represents public service, trust and the last-mile presence of India Post. Therefore, our concern is not merely regarding the use of an ordinary dictionary word, but the combined commercial presentation of the word "POSTMAN" with postal uniform, cap, postal bag and letters, which may create an impression among the public of some connection, approval, sponsorship or endorsement by India Post/Government of India.

We understand that there has also been a history of "POSTMAN" trademarks in the food/rice sector and that the legal position regarding ownership and authorised use may require verification. It is therefore requested that the Department may ascertain the present ownership, registration, licensing or permitted-user status of the concerned trademark and whether M/s Ladhani Foods has any lawful authority to use the name and accompanying representation.

The matter may also kindly be examined from the perspective of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, passing off/protection of goodwill, copyright in the artistic representation, wherever applicable, and other relevant legal provisions.

We therefore request that the Department may kindly cause an immediate and time-bound examination of the matter, including verification of the trademark status and the authority of the manufacturer/marketer to use the name "POSTMAN" and the image of a uniformed postal employee. If considered necessary, the matter may also be taken up with the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks, FSSAI and Department of Consumer Affairs for verification of the relevant records.

In case the use is found to be unauthorised or misleading and capable of creating an impression of association with India Post, appropriate legal and administrative action may kindly be initiated to protect the dignity, identity and goodwill of the Department of Posts and its Postman cadre.

The All India Postal Employees Union, Postmen and MTS, CHQ requests your kind intervention in the matter and an intimation of the action taken may kindly be communicated to the Union.

Encl.: Photograph/Image of the rice bag

With regards, (RP Sarang) General Secretary