Statutory Timelines

• Opposition must be filed within four months from the date of advertisement of the trademark in the Trademark Journal.
  
• The applicant is given two months to file a counter statement after receiving the opposition notice.
  
• Evidence stages include two months each for the opponent and applicant, with one month for rebuttal evidence by the opponent.
  
• These timelines are fixed under the Trade Marks Rules, 2017 and are strictly followed.
  

Practical Duration

• While statutory stages are time-bound, practical delays often extend the opposition process.
  
• On average, opposition proceedings may take 18 to 24 months to conclude.
  
• The timeline may vary depending on registry workload, adjournments, and hearing availability.
  
• Complex cases with multiple hearings or parties may extend even longer.
  

Delays and Adjournments

• Requests for adjournments by either party can slow down the process.
  
• Registry backlogs or administrative delays may push hearing dates.
  
• Improper filings or non-compliance with procedural rules also contribute to time extensions.
  
• Technical issues in online submissions can occasionally cause setbacks.
  

Hearing and Decision Timeline

• Once the evidence phase ends, the Registrar schedules a hearing—often several months later.
  
• Hearings may be conducted in person or via video conferencing, depending on registry practice.
  
• After the hearing, the Registrar usually takes a few weeks to several months to deliver the written decision.
  
• Final updates to the trademark register follow the issuance of this decision.
  

Conclusion of Proceedings

• Proceedings formally conclude once the Registrar issues the final order.
  
• If the opposition is dismissed, the application moves to registration.
  
• If the opposition is allowed, the application is refused and closed.
  
• Either party has the right to appeal the decision, which may further extend the overall timeline.