STATE Vs. SINTER PLAST CONTAINERS

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This shall dispose of the Notice of Enquiry (NOE) issued by this Commission under Sec.36a, Sec.36b (d) and Sec.36d of the MRTP Act, 1969 charging the respondent M/s. Sinter Plast Containers of having indulged in the unfair trade practice of disparaging the product of its competitors attracting Sec.36a (1) (x) of the Act. The NOE was based on a complaint received from M/s. Nuchem Limited in which it has alleged that the respondent has given an advertisement which is "technically incorrect and misleading".

(2.) Medium Density Fiber Board (MDF) is manufactured in India by only two parties namely the complainant M/s. Nuchem Limited and M/s. Mangalam Timber Plantations Limited. According to the information furnished by the complainant, MDF originally was evolved in the United States of America in the early 60's and the technology caught on because of its potential as an ideal replacement for natural timber. MDF has a smooth surface and more economical in terms of usage of paint in comparison with particle board, ply wood, black board etc. The complainant adds that MDF is the only panel material which can be "planned, routed, moulded without splitting, cracking, chipping". It has further pointed out that MDF is a "total substitute for natural timber and has been adopted globally for manufacture of door furniture's and industrial components" besides being safe to consumers.

(3.) The respondent inserted an advertisement which runs as follows: "timber rots, plywood and particle board absorb water. MDF is the worst of the lot as it guzzles as much as 18% water in a short span of 24 hours even though it is made as per ISI: 12406 specifications. Hence it is very difficult to find the material that's perfect. Like Sintex Plastic Sections. The Ultimate Alternative to Timber, Ply Board and MDF. Brought to you by the foremost innovator and leader in plastic products. Sintex Plastic Sections are ideal for your partitions, false ceilings, wall panelling, doors etc. As they are weather-proof, 100% water-proof, rot-proof, termite-proof, maintenance-fee and are available in various shades and combinations. "