Oversight and Administration

• The Registrar of Trade Marks oversees and manages the entire opposition process.
  
• Ensures that all parties comply with statutory timelines, formats, and procedures.
  
• Maintains accurate records of notices, counter-statements, evidence, and hearings.
  
• Issues official communications and updates the application status at each stage.
  

Scrutiny of Documents

• Reviews the Notice of Opposition to verify its admissibility and compliance.
  
• Confirms that the counter statement is submitted within the prescribed period.
  
• Monitors the filing of affidavits and supporting evidence from both parties.
  
• Has the authority to reject filings that are incomplete, non-compliant, or improperly formatted.
  

Conducting Hearings

• Schedules and conducts quasi-judicial hearings to hear both parties’ arguments.
  
• May summon parties to present oral submissions and clarify their positions.
  
• Allows parties to be represented by advocates or trademark agents.
  
• Ensures the hearing is conducted fairly and in accordance with the principles of natural justice.
  

Evaluation and Decision-Making

• Examines the merits of the opposition and defense based on the evidence and submissions.
  
• Assesses whether the proposed mark meets the legal criteria for registration.
  
• Issues a reasoned and written decision either allowing or rejecting the opposition.
  
• The decision is binding unless appealed before the High Court.
  

Authority and Enforcement

• Has the power to accept, refuse, or conditionally approve the trademark application.
  
• Updates the official Trade Marks Register based on the outcome of the proceedings.
  
• May order rectification of the register or cancellation of entries if required.
  
• Plays a critical role in balancing the interests of applicants, opponents, and the public.