Upload
others
View
12
Download
0
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
149
V. REGISTRABILITY OF TRADEMARKS – LEGISLATIVE APPROACH
The legislative intent regarding registrability of trademarks can be
gathered from combined reading of the preamble, definitions of “trademark”,
“mark” and Sections 9, 11, 12, 13 and 14 of the Trademarks Act 1999. The
definition of “mark”179 and “trademark”180 are quite comprehensive. They are
intended to be interpreted broadly. Any mark (including smell marks and sound
marks) can be registered as long as it satisfies the dual conditions of graphical
representability and capacity to distinguish the goods of one person from that of
others.
The TRIPS Agreement mandates that ‘ any sign or any combination of
signs, capable of distinguishing the goods or services if one undertaking from
those of other undertakings, shall be capable of constituting a trademark.”
It will be relevant to note Britian’s Approach in this matter as spelt out in
the White Paper on the Reform Of Trademark Law(1990)
“the test for registrability under the new law will in general, be similar to that
which applies at present to registration in Part B Register. A mark will have to be
capable of distinguishing the goods or services of its proprietor. In some cases
however the test will be eased. At present it is possible for it to be established
179 Section 2 (1)(zb) "trade mark" means a mark capable of being represented graphically and
which is capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one person from those of others and
may include shape of goods, their packaging and combination of colours.
180Section 2(1)(m) "mark" includes a device, brand, heading, label, ticket, name, signature, word,
letter, numeral, shape of goods, packaging or combination of colors or any combination thereof”
150
beyond doubt that a particular trademark is distinctive infact and yet for it to be
held in law to be not capable of distinguishing. Examples are geographical names
and laudatory epithets, this provision has been described as unattractive181, but
the registry and the courts have considered themselves bound by a long history of
case law, much of it dating from a period in which trading conditions were very
different from today. The government intends to take the opportunity offered by
the new law to clarify the position so that any trademark which is demonstrated to
be distinctive in fact will in future, be regarded as distinctive in law and therefore,
registrable. In some cases of course, the applicant may have an uphill task in
demonstrating, for example, that a common word or name has become distinctive
of his goods or services in the minds of purchasing public, but if he succeeds, he
will be entitled to protect his mark by registration.”
The Trademarks Act 1999 also proceeds on the same lines to keep the substantive
law in harmony with the international trend.
V.1. ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADEMARKS
In the trademarks act 1999 the requirement of registration is enumerated in
the definition of the trademark itself and then the marks which are not registrable
prima facie are enumerated in Section 9 and 11 of the trademarks act under the
heads absolute grounds for refusal of registration and relative grounds for refusal
of registration respectively. Absolute grounds are those which are based on
objections inherent in the mark itself or marks otherwise prohibited under any
other law or in public interest. These grounds are independent of the nature of
goods or services. Relative grounds for refusal include identity or similarity with
181Kerly’s, Law Of Trademarks AndTradenames, 14thedn.Sweet & Maxwell Ltd, 2005, para 8.75
151
earlier trademarks. Further it includes a ground where the mark is similar or
identical to an earlier trademark , which is what is called a well-known
trademark182. Briefly stated a trademark is registrable if it follows the following
conditions.
The mark should be capable of being represented graphically which all the
categories of mark included in the definition of mark under S.2(1)(m) of
the act obviously satisfy.
It should be capable of distinguishing the good of one person from that of
another183.
The mark is used in relation to goods or services for the purpose of
indicating or so as to indicate a convection in the course of trade between
the goods or services, as the case may be, and some person having the
right as a proprietor or by way of permitted user to the mark.
The use of the mark need not indicate any identity of the person using the
mark.
Besides this it should not be hit by the provisions which are the grounds
for refusal of registration of the trademark, i.e.; section 9 and 11.
V.1.a. It should be capable of being Graphically Represented
A mark should be capable of being graphically represented184. Graphical
representation means
182P.Narayanan, Law of Trademarks and Passing Off, 6th Edition, Eastern law House, p.142.
183Bud and Budweiser Budrau Trademarks (2002) RPC 38, 747, p. 755.
184 Section 2(1)(zb) of the Trademarks Act 1999.
152
a) the representation of a trade mark is in paper form.
b) it is possible to determine from the graphical representation precisely
what the mark is that the applicant uses or proposes to use without the
need for supporting samples etc;
c) the graphical representation can stand in place of the mark used or
proposed to be used by the applicant because it represents the mark and no
other;
d) it is reasonably practicable for persons inspecting the register, or
reading the Trademarks Journal, to understand from the graphical
representation what the trade mark is185.
With respect to the graphical representation of sound marks, India has simply
imported The Shield Mark doctrine.186 The Trade Mark Registry has not sought
to probe into whether representation through musical notes is intelligible to
everyone, and whether it is all-encompassing. Nonetheless, with regard to
distinctiveness, the Manual specifically lists sounds which are not distinctive and
thus will not be Registered.187
In the context of scent marks, the Registry has again directly applied the
Sieckmann test, stating that though smells are registrable, the fulfillment of the
graphical representation criteria becomes difficult post the Sieckmann holding188.
185 Draft Manual on Trademark Law and Practice.[hereinafter ‘draft manual’].
186Section. 5.2.2.1, Draft Manual.
187These include, inter alia, nursery rhymes and simple pieces of music of only 1 or 2 notes. See
Section 5.2.2.2, Draft Manual.
188See Section 5.2.3, Draft Manual.
153
It is disappointing to note that the Registry has not suggested any alternative
method of graphical representation in spite of stating that smells are registrable.
V.1.b. Capable of distinguishing or Distinctive Character
What is capable of distinguishing is a matter of interpretation. In section
9(1)(a) the expression “devoid of distinctive character, that is to say not capable of
distinguishing” appears which shows that the expression “distinctive character”
and “ capable of distinguishing” are used synonymously. The Act also recognizes
that a mark can acquire distinctive character by use of the mark. Therefore it
appears that there is hardly any difference between the terms distinctive character
and distinctiveness. Below stated are some obvious and general propositions
regarding distinctive character:
Possession of distinctive character, inherent or acquired, by a sign is a
question of fact189.
Whatever the sign or type of sign, the same amount of distinctive character
should be required before the sign is properly registered as a trademark,
whether the distinctive character is inherent or whether it has been
acquired through use.
The assessment of inherent distinctive character depends upon the mark
itself. This does not mean that the sign or mark is assessed in a vacuum:
the trade of goods or services in question provides the context.
189Seligmann’s Application (1954) 71 RPC 52 at P.55
154
The assessment of acquired distinctive character requires an overall
assessment of the way in which the mark has been used to ascertain
whether the mark has become distinctive190.
List of marks prohibited from registration by virtue of directions of Central
Government
Certain names and pictures of God and Goddess and also religious heads are
prohibited from being registered as trade marks in terms of directions issued by
the Central Government under section 23(1) of the Trade & Merchandise Marks
Act, 1958. List of marks not registrable as per directions of the Central
Government issued under section 16(1) of the Trade Marks Act, 1940* and
section 23(1) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999
Words “UNITED NATIONS”, letters “UNO” and the official Seal and
Emblem of UNO.
The device of an arrow on the ground that is the property of the
Government of India.
Letters “N.C.L.”.
Letters “I.S.I.” if applied by any person or body other than the Indian
Standards Institution.
Letters “I.C.S.”,
Letters “N.P.L.” \
Words “ASHOK CHAKRA” or DHARMA CHAKRA” or the device of
Asoka Chakra or any other colourable limitation thereof.
190Kerly’s, Law Of Trademarks AndTradenames, 14thedn.Sweet & Maxwell Ltd, 2005, p. 159.
155
The British Royal Arms, The British Crown or the Union jack or any
colourable limitation thereof.
Letters “I.S.O.” if applied by any person or body other than the Indian
Standards Institution.
Words “Lord Buddha” or the device of Lord Buddha or any colourable
imitation thereof. .3..
Words “Shree Sai Baba” or the device of Shree Sai Baba or any colourable
imitation thereof.
Words “Sri Ramkrishna, Swami Vivekananda, the Holy Mother alias Sri
Sarada Devi or the devices of Sri Ramkrishna, Swami Vivekananda, the
Holy Mother alias Sri Sarada Devi and the Emblems of the Ramkrishna
Math and Mission or colourable imitation thereof.
Words “National”, and “Panchsheel”
Names and pictures of Sikh Gurus, viz. Guru Nanak, guru Angad, Guru
Amar das, Guru Ram Das, Guru Arjun dev, Guru Hargobind, guru Har
Raj, Guru Har Krishnan, Guru Teg Bahadur and Guru Govind Singh
Name and picture of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Letters “STC”.
Name and/or picture of the deity of Lord Venkateswara and/or Balaji
Representation of the Election Symbol of any political party in India.
V.2. ABSOLUTE GROUNDS FOR REFUSAL OF REGISTRATION
Section 9 of the Trademarks Act 1999 enumerates absolute grounds for
refusal of registration. This section replaces section 9 of the Trade and
156
Merchandise Marks Act 1958.The law is intended to serve the growing needs of
trade and commerce and to adapt itself to changes in trading practices. Though the
section is formulated in a negative language stipulating absolute grounds for
refusal of registration, it is to be seen that any mark, which is not hit by this
provision, would qualify for registration.
Section 9 contains three sub sections. Sub section (1) consisting of three
sub clauses involves the main question of distinctiveness of trade mark applied
for. Sub section (2) contains provisions touching on the matters of public policy.
It therefore mandates that a mark shall not be registered if it is of such nature as to
deceive the public or cause confusion or if it contains matter likely to hurt the
religious susceptibilities of any class or section of the citizens of India, or if mark
contains scandals or obscene matters or the use of the mark which is prohibited
under Emblems and Names Act 1950.Though the general definition of trade mark
includes the shape of goods or packing. Sub section (3) of section 9 seeks to
prohibit registration of shapes which are in fact, descriptive of the goods
themselves or those which are dictated by their functional requirements or shapes
which give substantial value to the goods.
V.2.a. Refusal of registration under Section 9(1)
Refusal of registration under Section 9(1)(a)
The basis of section 9 (1) is that a trader should not obtain statutory
monopoly through registration in a word which another trader might legitimately
wish to use. Section 9(1) is thus to read along with section 30(Limits of effect of
registered trade mark) section 34 (saving for a vested right) section 35 (saving for
157
a use of name, address or description of an article or substance or service) of the
Act of 1999.Asection 9(1) (a) prohibits the registration of trademarks which are
devoid of any distinctive character. Unlike section 9(b) and(c) it does not give any
clear definition as to the nature of objection. Its purpose is to prohibit generally
registration of mark which does not fulfil the function of trade mark. Proviso to
section 9(1) extends its helping hand to the applicant in order to get done
registration of mark which has acquired a distinctive character as a result of the
use made of it or is a well known trade mark.
In Hindustan lever vs. Kilts191 the word SAFEO was held descriptive not
registrable for cleaning powder and liquid for being too close to the word SAFE
meaning ,clean, white. In TY Nant Sparing Water Ltd192 application was made for
registration of mark consisting of ‘bottle coloured blue’ in respect of bottled water
was refused registration on the ground that it was not possible to determine
precisely what the mark was and therefore devoid of distinctive character. In 800
FLOWERS TM Application193 in this case the applicants had sought to register the
said trademark i.e. FLOWERS as a service mark for receiving and transferring
orders for flowers and floral products, it was held that mark is not inherently
capable of distinguishing applicant’s goods which has direct reference to their
business .
1911982 PTC 38
192(1999)RPC 392,p.395
193TM Application 2000 FSR(ch.D)
158
In Pam Pharmaceuticals vs. Richardson Vicks Inc&Ors194, the
respondent’s trade mark DROXYL has been registered by the Registrar of the
trade mark under the Registration No -508348 in respect of pharmaceuticals and
medicinal preparations. The court held that the respondent’s trademark DROXYL
is derived from pharmaceutical preparation CEFADROXIL and thus designates
kind of goods and devoid of distinctive character.In America online, Inc’s
Application195 the applicant sought to register the words “YOU’VE GOT MAIL”
as a trademark in various classes. The examiner refuses the application finding
that the mark was not distinctive. In appeal, the Board of appeal held that the
impugned trade mark composed of common terms to inform email users of the
ordinary fact that they have received new email and that phrase must remain free
from individual monopoly.In “Cycling IS ...Trade mark Application”196 the
applicants sought registration as the trademarks consisting of the words “Cycling
IS....”and “Cycling IS...”registration was refused by the registrar on the grounds
that sign were devoid of distinctive character .The Registrar reasons were : self
evidently the mark applied for does not convey complete idea . It invites the
viewer or readers to look for missing words or seek for further explanation.
InOHIM vs. Wm Wrigley Jr. Company (Doublemint)197 an application for
registration of trademark DOUBLEMINT for goods in classes 3,5and 30
particularly for chewing gum was refused by OHIM .An appeal to the first Board
was dismissed on the ground that the word DOUBLEMINT was combination of
1942001(1)42GLR125
1952002 E.T.M.R. 6, 59
1962002 RPC,37,729,P-735
1972004 RPC 18,327
159
two English words and descriptive of characteristics of the goods in question,
namely mint based composition and mint flavoured .On further appeal the court of
First Instance held that DOUBLEMINT was not exclusively descriptive in nature.
OHIM further appealed to the court of European Communities .The court held
that a sign had to be refused to registration if at least one of its possible meanings
designated characteristics of the goods and services concerned and DOBLEMINT
cannot registered as trade mark ,the decision of court of First instance was
reversed.
In Enfield India vs. Deepak engine syndicate198 in this case the trade mark
BULLETE in respect of motor cycle was found descriptive and refused for
registration. In Ram Gopal soap factory vs. Godrej soaps Ltd199 the trademark
CHABI in respect of washing soap was refused for registration.In J B Hosiery
industries vs. Roop Hosiery factory200 COMEX in respect of Nylon socks was
allowed for registration as non descriptive word with regard to business.
Refusal of registration under Section 9(1)(b)
Purpose of the goods
An application for registration of the word P.R.E.P.A.R.E. in respect of printed
matter, instructional and teaching material was refused by register on the grounds
that, the word PREPARE designated the intended purpose of goods , it naturally
1982006 32 PTC 39
1992006 32 PTC 847
2002006 32 PTC 555
160
describe one of the purposes for which the material was supplied and also devoid
of distinctive character.
Time of Production
In Besnier S A’s Trademark Application201applicants wanted to register DAY BY
DAY as their trade mark in respect of milk and other milk products, edible oil and
fats but registration was refused on the ground that the mark consists exclusively
of a sign which may serve in trade to designate the time of delivery of the goods
included within the specification, or their quality. The mark is also devoid of
distinctiveness character and it is descriptive, further observed that regard should
be had not only of natural use on packing but also to natural use in the context of
advertising the product in question. The expression DAY BY DAY could
naturally be used by other traders to designate the time of delivery of goods or
their qualities.
Geographical Origin
In Liverpool Electric cable Co Ltd’s case202 registration was sought for trade mark
LIVERPOOL in respect of electric cables .Rejecting the registration of
LIVERPOOL as trademark it was held that the name of an important commercial
centre such as LIVERPOOL even though it might in fact be distinctive of the
goods in respect of which it was sought to be registered, was not registrable as
LIVERPOOL being a well know city was geographical name.
2012002 RPC 6,257
2021929 46 RPC 99
161
Refusal of registration under Section 9 (1)I
Customary in language
A German Organisation called SAMHITA run by followers of Maharishi, Mahesh
Yogi, got word “VASTU” registered as its trademark. Marcus schimieke, a
German vastu expert wrote book titled VASTU for which he was served a legal
notice by SAMHITA, which led Schimieke to withdraw every copy of his book
from market. The court held that ‘vastu’ is a word that belongs to a language
called Sanskrit and hence does not belong to any particular culture/custom. The
court further held that a science subject cannot be claimed as a trademark, the
learned registrar erred in registering ‘VASTU’ as trade mark because if today
‘Vastu’ is registered ,then tomorrow it might happen that words like physics,
chemistry etc will also get a similar kind of encouragement for registration in the
countries where they are not popular know. The provision 9(1)I prohibits marks,
indications very common words common to trade or customary in current
language or in established practice of trade from being registered as trade mark,
the same goes with the mark of VASTU.
However if the trade mark has acquired a distinctive character as a result
of the use of it or it is well known trade mark before the date of an application for
registration, the registration cannot be refused. In case of Registrar vs.Hamdard,
Safi as a trade mark for medical preparation is granted as trade mark although the
word Safi means clear and pure and the medicine is used for blood purification
and clear skin. The registration was granted on the ground of long use.
162
V.2.b. Refusal of registration under Section 9(2)
Refusal of registration under Section 9(2)(a)
Section 9(2) (a) seeks to prevent registration of marks which are likely to
deceive the public or cause confusion, which is one of the absolute grounds for
registration of trademark. The deception or confusion might arise by reason of
similarity between the proposed mark and another existing mark. Thus a trade
mark is not registrable if it is of such a nature as to deceive the public or cause
confusion. The trademark should be non-deceptive and non-confusing; non
deceptive in the sense that it should not persuade the people that the goods are
services are what they are in fact are not; and non-confusing, if it could be
confused with the trade or service mark of a similar product or services that has
already been registered .Deception or confusion may relate to the proprietor, place
of production, place of origin of goods, or it may be on any account. A mark may
likely to deceive or cause confusion when it makes false representation as to
nature, or quality or place of manufacture of the goods. Deceptive representation
or causing nature of mark is essential requirement for refusal of the mark under
section 9(2) of the Act 1999. If the nature of the mark is of such nature that so as
to deceive the public or cause confusion in the minds of the people is absolute in
its terms which does not require comparison with any other trade mark to arrive at
a result .
In Laxmikant V. Patel vs. Chetanbhai Shah203, the plaintiff was conducting
the business of a colour lab and studio in Ahmadabad since 1982 in the name and
203AIR 2001 SCC 4989
163
style of “Muktajeevan colour lab and studio”. The business has acquired
reputation. The suit was filed when the defendant who was earlier carrying an
similar business in the name of Gokul studio started running his business in the
name and style of “QSS muktajeevan colour lab” subsequently from1995.The
Supreme court granted injunction from further using the same trade name and
observed that law does not permit any one to carry on his business in such a way
as to persuade the customers or clients in believing that the goods or services
belonging to someone else are his or are associated therewith.
Refusal of registration under Section 9 (2)(b)
Section 9(2) (b) forbids registration of a mark, if it contains or comprises
of any matter likely to hurt the religious susceptibilities of any class or section of
the citizen of India. It is common trade practice in India to use names and pictures
of Gods and Goddesses or religious heads as trademarks. Though per se is not
regarded by the public as offending their religious sentiments, their use in relation
to certain goods may offend the religious sentiments of the people.For example,
the use of names /device of deities or religious heads on footwear may be
considered distasteful .Similarly the use of Hindu Gods of beef or meat products
or such use of Muslim saints for pork products would offend the religious feelings
of the respective sections of the public. Registration of such mark would fall
within the prohibitory scope of section 9(2) (a).
In Amritpal Singh vs. LalBabuPriyadarshi and Assistant Register204
respondent field an application in 1994 for the registration of the word
2042005 (30) PTC94 (IPAB)
164
RAMAYAN with the device of crown in respect of agarbatties, dhoops, incense
sticks and perfumes etc. He claimed user since 1987 registration was allowed by
Assistant Register. Appellant field notice of opposition in 2001 and objections
under section 9,11(a),11(b),11(e),12(1),12(3)and18(1)of the trade and
merchandise Act 1958.Appellant argued that the impugned mark being name of a
religious book cannot become the subject matter of the individual monopoly and it
is devoid of distinctive character and it resembles to the mark of First respondent
“BadshahRamayan” which he claimed, he is the user of mark since 1986 and field
an application in 1996 for registration which was still pending. The Assistant
Register found reliance that word RAMAYAN is capable of distinguishing the
goods of first respondent and the word RAMAYAN is not included in the list of
marks not registrable as per the directions issued by the central Government.
Appellant field an appeal to intellectual Property Appellant Board in2004 for the
cancelation of the registration of the trade mark which was allowed by Assistant
Register. The board held that Assistant Register has erred in allowing registration
of such mark registration was cancelled.
Refusal of registration under Section 9(2)I
Section 9(2) I of the 1999 Act prohibits registration of a trademark which
comprises or contains scandalous or obscene matters. It is obvious that
registration should be denied for marks, which are contrary to morality or
considered obscene.
165
Refusal of registration under Section 9(2) (d)
Section 9(2) (d) prohibits registration of mark if its use is prohibited under
the Emblems and Names (Prevention of improper use) Act 1950. Emblems and
names Act prohibits the improper use of certain emblems and names for
professional and commercial purpose. That Act prohibits person from using any
name or emblem specified in the schedules, the schedule contains a list of twenty
one items of names, emblems or official seal which are prohibited. They inter alia
relate to United Nations organisation, Indian National Flag, Government of India,
state Government, President, Governor, Rashtrapathi, Ashoka Chakra, Mahatma
Gandhi, etc.
V.2.c. Refusal of registration under Section 9(3)
Sub section (3) of section 9 is a new provision. The shape of goods and
their packaging is already included in the definition of ‘Mark’ for the purpose of
registration. Section 9(3) however prohibits registration as a trade mark if it
consists exclusively of a shape which results from the nature of the goods
themselves or such shape of goods is necessary to obtain a technical result or that
the shape of those goods gives substantial value to the goods.For registrability, the
shape of goods should be such as being capable of distinguishing the goods of the
applicant from those of others. Shape is so distinctive that is primarily serves to
identify the product and to distinguish it from competing products, without being
hit by the provisions of section 9(3), it will qualify registration.
166
Refusal of registration under Section 9(3)(a)
Under section 9(3)(a) the Act prohibits registration as a trade mark if it
consists exclusively of the shape of goods which results from the nature of goods
itself, the sub section is intended to exclude from registration primaryshapes that
will be available for use by the public at large. The shape of an egg tray, whose
purpose is to hold the eggs, would come within the purview of section 9(3)(a), and
would not be considered as capable of distinguishing.
Refusal of registration under Section 9(3)(b)
In the context of section 9(3) (b), a mark shall not be registered if it
consists exclusively of the shape of goods which is necessary to obtain a technical
result. The meaning of “necessary to obtain a technical result” as used in section
9(3) (b) of the Act should be determined by inquiring whether in substance the
shape solely achieves a technical result. The shape of a squared pinned plug-
unless the pins are square, they will not fit into the standard socket. So its shape is
necessary to achieve a technical result. Hence, will not be registrable under
section 9(3)(b).
In Phillips Vs.Remington205 the court said that, the sub section must be construed
so that its ambit coincides with its purpose “the purpose is to exclude from
registration shapes which are merely functional in the sense that they are
motivated by and the result of technical consideration”.
2051999 RPC 809(CA)
167
Refusal of registration under Section 9(3)I
Section 9 (3) I prohibits the registration of trade mark if it consists
exclusively of “the shape which gives substantial value to the goods”. There may
be overlap between this sub section and sub section which excludes shapes
necessary to obtain technical result, but the purpose is different. The latter is
intended to exclude functional shapes and former aesthetic type of shapes. Under
section 9(3)I,shapes which are more effective than other alternatives for
performing a particular task add substantial value to the goods would not be
registrable.
V.3. RELATIVE GROUNDS FOR REFUSAL OF REGISTRATION
Section 11 has been inserted in under the Act of 1999, to lay down the
relative grounds for refusal of registration.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(1)
A trademark shall be registered only if it does not cause confusion in the minds of
the public. The word likelihood to cause confusion used under this subsection
includes the likelihood of association with the earlier mark because of
1. Its identity with an earlier trademark and similarity of goods or services
covered by the trademark or
2. Its similarity to an earlier trademark and the identity or similarity of the
goods or services covered by the trademark.
168
In relation to the expression ‘goods and services’ the courts found a useful test206
namely, that regard must be had to the nature and composition of the goods, the
respective uses of the articles, and the trade channels through which the
commodities are respectively bought and sold.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(2)
It provides that where the goods or services are not similar and the use of
trademark identical with or similar to an earlier trademark without due cause
would take unfair advantage of or be detrimental to the distinctive character or
repute of the earlier trademark, shall not be registered.
In Sunder Parmanand vs. Caltex207,an application for registration of
trademark ‘caltex” in respect of horological and chronometric instruments in class
14 was refused registration, allowing an appeal against the decision of the
Registrar, even though the opponents mark “Caltex” was well known only in
respect of petroleum products.InDilip Chand Aggarwal vs. Escorts Ltd208, a trade
mark ESCORTS which was sought to be registered in respect of electric iron,
electric kettles etc. on the opposition by the owner of the well-known mark
ESCORTS in respect of a variety of goods in the Indian market, was refused for
registration.
206Coined by Romer J in Re Jellenik’s Application (1946) 63 RPC 59 at 70. The test was approved
in Daiquiri Rum Trademark [1969] RPC 600 at 620.
207 AIR 1969 Bom, 24
2081981 AIR Del 150
169
Use of the later mark without due cause
The words ‘being without due cause” are somewhat opaque in their effect
and that ‘they have to be read as not merely governing the words “the use of
Sign”, but also as governing the words “Unfair advantage or to be detrimental to”.
Unfair advantage or to be detrimental to distinctive character
Section 11 (2) enacts that the Use of the later mark without due cause
would take Unfair advantage or to be detrimental to distinctive character or repute
the earlier trademark. In cases where the public are confused into thinking that
there is a commercial connection between the suppliers of the goods or services
supplied under the earlier trademark and the mark the subject of the application,
then it is to be anticipated that the prohibition will apply. Such confusion as to
origin is likely to take unfair advantage of and be damaging to the distinctive
nature or reputation of the earlier trademark.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(3)
It lays down that a trademark shall not be registered, if its use is prevented
by the law of passing off or under the law of copyright. The onus is on the
opponents to establish that they have goodwill in an indicium, there will be an
operative misrepresentation and there will be a consequential damage.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(4)
It permits registration where the owner of the existing trademark gives
consent. This is the new provision. This overrides all the prohibitory provisions of
section 11 and empowers the registrar to allow registration of a trademark in spite
170
of all plausible objections, where the owner of the earlier trademark or other
earlier right consents to the registration. This subsection takes into account the
practical aspects and business realities.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(5)
In this sub section a trademark shall not be refused to register under the
grounds mentioned in sub section (2) & (3) unless an objection is made by the
owner of the earlier trademark in an opposition proceeding.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(6)
It lays down the factors which the registrar will take into account in
determining whether a trademark is a well known trademark or not. It mandates
that the registrar shall take into account any fact which he considers relevant
including:-
knowledge or recognition of that mark in the relevant section of public,
including knowledge in India obtained as a result of promotion of the
trademark;
duration, extent and geographical area of the use of the mark
duration, extent and geographical area of any promotion of the mark,
including advertising or publicity and presentation, at fairs or exhibitions.
duration, extent and geographical area of any registration or any
publication for registration of that mark, to the extent they reflect the use
or recognition of the mark,
record of successful enforcement and the extent to which the mark has
been recognized as a well known mark by any court or Registrar.
171
Refusal of registration under Section 11(7)
This sub section briefly indicates the factors to be taken into account by
the registrar while determining whether a trademark is a well- known or
recognized in the relevant section of the public for the purpose of sub-section
(6).The registrar is required to take into account the following things:-
The number of actual or potential consumers of the goods or services.
The number of persons involved with the channel of distribution of goods
or services.
The business circles dealing with the goods or services to which that
trademark applies.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(8)
It provides that a trademark needs to be well known in at least one relevant
section of the public.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(9)
This sub section provides that the registrar shall not require as a condition,
for determining whether a trademark is a well-known trademark, any of the
following namely –
That the trademark has been used in India;
That the trademark has been registered;
That the application for registration of the trademark has been filed in
India;
172
That the trademark is a well known in, or has been registered in, or in
respect of which an application for registration has been filed in any
jurisdiction other than India; or
That the trademark is well- known to the public at large in India.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(10)
This subsection provides that while considering an application for
registration and opposition thereto, the registrar shall protect a well known
trademark against identical or similar trademarks and take into consideration the
bad faith of either the applicant or the opponent affecting the rights relating to the
trademark. This subsection emphasizes the fundamental principle of according
protection to well known trademarks. It recognizes the possibility of bad faith
involved either of the applicant or the opponent affecting the right relating to the
trademark.
Refusal of registration under Section 11(11)
This sub section seeks to protect “prior use in good faith” or “prior
registration on good faith” before the commencement of the Act, of an identical or
similar trademark against a well known trademark. In SurajmalDyduramiji Soap
vs. ShrikisanRamkisan209, it was held that a thing shall be deemed to be done in
good faith where it is in fact done honestly, whether it is done negligently or not.
209 AIR 1973 Bom, 313, 321
173
V.4. PROCEDURE FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADEMARKS
V.4.a. Application for registration
Any person claiming to be the proprietor of a trade mark used or proposed
to be used by him, may apply in writing to the Registrar in the prescribed manner
for the registration of his trade mark.
V.4.a.(i). Single Application for Different Classes of Goods and Services
A single application may be made for registration of a trademark for
different classes of goods and services and fee payable thereof shall be in respect
of each such class of goods or services. Under the ‘Trade and Merchandise Marks
Act 1958, separate applications were requited to he made it the applicant desired
to register a trade mark in more than one class.
According to r 2(1)I of the Trademarks Rules 2002. An ‘application for
registration of a trade mark’ includes the trade mark for goods or services
contained in it. According to r 25(12), an application for the registration of a trade
mark for goods or services shall:
(a) explain with sufficient precision, a description bv words, of the trade mark
if necessary; to determine the right of the applicant;
(b) be able to depict the graphical representation of the made mall,
(c) be considered as a three dimensional trade mark only it the application
contains a statement to that effect:
(d) be considered as a trade mark consisting of a combination of colours, only
if the application contains a statement to that effect.
174
The Supreme Court in American Home Products v. Mac Laboratories Pvt
Ltd210.held that it is pertinent to note that both under Section 14(1) of the 1940 Act
and S.18(1) of the 1958 Act (section 18(1)of the Trademarks Act 1999). An
applicant for registration must be a person claiming to be the proprietor of a trade
mark used or proposed to be used by him. Therefore, unless it is the case of an
applicant for registration that he is the proprietor of a trade mark which has been
used by him or which it proposed to be used by him he is not entitled to
registration.
According to r 25(9) of Trademarks Rules 2002, a single application for
the registration of a trade mark for different classes of goods shall be made in
Form TM-5I.Where an applicant files a single application in more than one
classes the Registrar determines that the goods or services applied for fall in class
or classes in addition to those applied for, the applicant my restrict the
specification of goods or services to the class applied for, or amend that
application to add additional class or classes on payment of the appropriate class
fee and the divisional fee. The new class created through a division retains the
benefit of the original filing date or in the case of an application, from a
convention country the convention application date under S.154(12) provided the
claim was otherwise properly asserted in the initial application.211
Where a single application under s.18(2) is filed from a convention
country for one or more classes of goods or services, the applicants shall establish
210(1986) 1 SCC 465, p.481.
211Trademarks Rules 2002, r 25(19)1.
175
a sufficient ground to the satisfaction of the Registrar for the date of filing of
application in all such classes.
V.4.a.(ii). Application to be Filed in the Office of Trademarks Registry
The application for registration of a trade mark is to be filed in the office
of the Trademarks Registry within whose territorial limits the principal place of
business in India of the applicant or in the case of joint applicants, the principal
place of business of the first applicant is situated.
However, where the applicant or any of the joint applicants does not curry
on business in India, the application is to be filed in the office of the Trademarks
Registry within whose territorial limits the place mentioned in the address for
service in India as disclosed in the application is situated. According to r 4 of the
Trademarks Rules 2002, the appropriate office of the Trademarks Registry for the
purposes of making an application for the registration of a trade mark under s 18
or for giving notice of opposition under S.21 or for making an application for
removal of a trademark under S.47 or cancelling or varying the registration of a
trademark under S.57 or for any other proceedings under the Act and the rules
shall be
a) in relation to a trade mark tin the Register of Trademarks at the notified
date, the office of the Trademarks Registry within whose territorial limits:
1) the principal place of business in India of the registered
proprietor of the trade mark as entered in the register as such
date is situate:
2) where there is no entry in the register as to the principal place
of business in India of the registered proprietor, the place
176
mentioned in the address for service in India as entered in the
register at such date is situate;
3) in the ease of jointly registered proprietors, the principal place
of business in India of the proprietor whose name is entered
first in the register as having such place of business in India at
such date is situate
4) where none of the jointly registered proprietors is shown in the
register as having a principal place of business in India, the
place mentioned in the address for service in India of the joint
proprietors as entered in the register at such date, is situate;
5) if no principal place of business in India of the registered
proprietor of the mark or in the case of joint registration, of any
of the joint proprietors of the mark, is entered in the register,
and the register does not contain any address for service in
India, the place of the office of the Trademarks Registry where
the application for registration of the trade mark was made, is
situate, and
b) in relation to a trade mark for which an application for registration is
pending at the notified date or is made on or after the notified date, the
office of the Trademarks Registry within whose territorial limits
1) the principal place of business in India of the applicant as
disclosed in the application or, in the case of joint applicants,
the principal place of business in India of the applicant whose
name is first mentioned in the application, as having such place
of business is situate
177
where neither the applicant nor any of the joint applicants, as the case may be, has
a principal place of business in India, the place mentioned in the address for
service in India as specified in the application is situated.
V.4.a.(iii). Principal Place of Business of the Applicant
Rule 3 of the Trademarks Rules 2002.defines. ‘principal place of business in
India to mean
1) where a person carries on business in the goods or services concerned in a
trade mark:
a) if the business is carried in only one place. That place
b) If the business is carried on in India at more places than one, the place
mentioned by him as the principal place of business in India:
2) where a person it not carrying on business in the goods or services
concerned in a trade mark
a) if he is carrying on any other business in India at only one place, that
place;
b) if he is carrying any other business in India at more than one place, the
place mentioned by him as the principal place of business
3) where a person does not carry on any business in India but has a place of
residence in India, then such place of residence in India.
V.4.a.(iv). Address for Service
According to Rule 18 of the Trademark Rules 2002, an address for service in
India shall be given
178
(a) by every applicant for registration of a trade mark who has no
principal place of business in India;
(b) in the case of joint applicants for registration of a trade mark, if none
of them has a principal place of business in India;
I by the proprietor of a trade mark who had his principal place of business
in India at the date of making the application for registration but has
subsequently ceased to have such place;
(d) by every applicant in any proceeding under the Act or the rules and
every person filing a notice of opposition, who does not have a principal
place of business in India.
(e) by every person granted leave to intervene under rule 94.
Any written communication addressed to a person as aforesaid at an address for
service in India given by him shall be deemed to be properly addressed. Unless an
address for service in India as required in sub-rule (1) is given, the Registrar shall
be under no obligation to send any notice that may be required by the Act or the
rules and no subsequent order or decision in the proceedings shall be called in
question on the ground of any lack or non-service of notice.
An applicant for registration of a trade mark or an opponent filing notice
of opposition may notwithstanding that he has a principal place of business in
India, if he so desires, may specifically request in writing, the Registrar with an
address in India to which communications in relation to application or opposition
proceedings only may be sent. Such address of the applicant or the opponent shall
be deemed unless subsequently cancelled, to be the actual address of the applicant
179
or the opponent, as the case may be, and all communications and documents in
relation to the application or notice of opposition may be served by leaving them
at, or sending them by post to such address of the applicant or the opponent, as the
case may be212.
V.4.b. Acceptance or Refusal of Application
The Registrar may, subject to the provisions of this Act, refuse the
application or may accept it absolutely or subject to such amendments,
modifications, conditions or limitations, if any, as he may think fit. In the case of
a refusal or conditional acceptance of an application, the Registrar shall record in
writing the grounds for such refusal or conditional acceptance and the materials
used by him in arriving at his decision213
V.4.b.(i). Amendment of Application—Section 18(4)
An application for registration of a trade mark may, whether before or
after acceptance of his application but before the registration of the mark, apply in
form TM-16 accompanied by the prescribed fee for the correction of any error in
or in connection with his application or any amendment of his application.
However, no such amendment shall be permitted which shall have the effect of
substantially altering the trade mark applied for or substitute a new specification
of goods or services not included in the application as filed214.
212 Trademarks Rules 2002, r 19
213Section 18 (4) and 18(5).
214 Trademarks Rules 2002, r 41
180
V.4.c. Correction and Amendment
According to s 22, the Registrar may at any time, whether before or after
acceptance of an application for registration, permit the correction of any error in
or in connection with the application or permit an amendment of the application.
However, if an amendment is made to a single application referred to in s 18(2)
involving division of such application into two or more applications, die date of
making of the initial application is to be deemed to be the date of making of the
divided applications so divided.
V.4.d.Withdrawal of Acceptance
After the acceptance of an application for registration of a trade mark but
before its registration, the Registrar is satisfied –
(a) that the application has been accepted in error; or
(b) that in the circumstances of the case the trade mark should not be
registered or should be registered subject to conditions or limitations or to
conditions additional to or different from the conditions or limitations
subject to which the application has been accepted,
the Registrar may, after hearing the applicant if he so desires, withdraw the
acceptance and proceed as if the application had not been accepted215.
If after the acceptance of an application hut before the registration the trade mark,
the Registrar has any objection to the acceptance of the application on the ground
that it was accepted in error, or that the mark ought not to have been accepted in
m the circumstances of the case. Or proposes that the mark should be registered
215Section 19 of the Trademarks Act 1999.
181
only subject to conditions, limitations, divisions or to conditions additional to or
different from the conditions or limitations, subject to which the application has
been accepted, the Registrar, shall communicate such objection in writing to the
applicant.
Unless the applicant amends his application within thirty days from the
dare of receipt of the communication to comply with the requirements of the
Registrar or applies for a hearing the acceptance of the application shall be
deemed to be withdrawn by the Registrar, and the application shall proceed as if it
had not been accepted.
Where the applicant intimates the Registrar within the aforesaid period
that he desires to be heard, the Registrar shall give notice to the applicant of a date
when he will hear him. Such appointment shall be for a date at least fifteen days
after the date of the notice, unless the applicant consents to a shorter notice. The
applicant may state that he does not desire to be heard and submit such
submissions, as he may consider desirable.The Registrar may, after hearing the
applicant, on considering the submissions, if any, of the applicant, pass such
orders as he may deem fit216.
V.4.e. Advertisement of Application
According to Section 20, when an application for registration of a trade
mark has been accepted, whether absolutely or subject to conditions or limitations,
the Registrar shall, as soon as may be after acceptance, cause the application as
216Trademarks Rules 2002, r 42
182
accepted together with the conditions or limitations, if any, subject to which it has
been accepted.
The Registrar may, however, cause the application to be advertised before
acceptance if it relates to a trade mark to which sub-section (1) of section 9 and
subsections (1) and (2) of section 11 apply, or in any other case where it appears
to him that it is expedient by reason of any exceptional circumstances so to do.
Where an application has been advertised before acceptance or after
advertisement of an application: (i) an error in the application has been corrected;
or(ii) the application has been permitted to be amended under section 22, the
Registrar may in his discretion cause the application to be advertised again or
notify the correction or amendment made in the application, where the error was
corrected or application was amended.
Once an application for registration is made and accepted by the Registrar,
the Registrar has to cause the application to be advertised217. Where an application
has been accepted either absolutely or subject to certain conditions or limitations,
it has to be advertised, thought the Registrar may advertise it even before its
acceptance in certain situations contemplated by that section.218
V.4.e.(i). Advertisement in the prescribed Manner
An application for the registration of a trade mark required or permitted to
be advertised by S.20(1) or to be re-advertised by s 20(2) shall be advertised in the
Journal ordinarily within six months of the acceptance of an application for
217American Home Products Corporation v. Mac Laboratories Private Limited (1986) 1 SCC 465,
p.481.
218Whirlpool Corporation v. Registrar of Trademarks (1998) 8 SCC 1 p.15.
183
registration or after the expiry of the period referred to in S.154(2) whichever is
later.
Where a trade mark applied is other than a word, the Registrar may call the
applicant to furnish a camera-ready copy of the trade mark ordered to be
advertised to scan electronically into a Desktop publishing package.
The Registrar may after informing the public in the Journal, put the
applications published in the journal on the Internet, web site or any other
electronic media. The Registrar may after informing the public in the Journal
make available the Journal in CD-ROM on payment of the cost thereof219.
Where an application relates to a series of trademarks differing from one
another in respect of the particulars mentioned in s 15(3), the Registrar may, if he
thinks fit, insert with the advertisement of the application a statement of the
manner in which the several trademarks differ from one another.
V.4.e.(ii). Notification in the Prescribed Manner of the Correction or
Amendment
In the case of an application to which s 20(2)(b) applies, the Registrar
may, if he so decides, instead of causing the application to be advertised again,
insert in the Journal a notification setting out number of the application, the class
or classes in which it was made, the name and address of the principal place of
business In India, if any, of the applicant or where the applicant has no principal
219 Trademarks Rules 2002, r 43
184
place of business in India his address for service in India, the Journal number in
which it was advertised for correction or amendment made in the application220.
V.4.f. Opposition to Registration
Section 21 enables a person to give notice of opposition to registration in
writing to the Registrar within three months from the date of advertisement or re-
advertisement of an application for registration or within such further period, not
exceeding one month in the aggregate as the Registrar allows.
In American Home Products Corpn v Mac Laboratories (P) Ltd,221 the
Supreme Court held that once an application for registration is made and accepted
by the Registrar , the Registrar has to cause the application to be advertised and
within three months from the date of advertisement , any person may lodge with
the Registrar a notice of opposition in writing to the registration of such mark. A
copy of such notice of opposition is to be served upon the applicant. These
provisions made in ss 20 and 21 of the 1958 Act (also 1999 Act) correspond to s
15 of the 1940 Act.
Under s 21, notice of opposition may be given to the Registrar by any
person opposing registration and the applicant may, in reply threto, file a counter-
statement. Thereafter the Registrar is required, after giving an opportunity of
hearing to the applicant and his opponent, to decide whether registration is to be
220 Trade Mark Rules 2002, r 45
221 (1986) 1 SSC 465, p 481
185
permitted absolutely or subject to such conditions or limitations as he may deem
fit to specify.222
The words ‘from the date of achievement’ should mean the date when the
journal is issued and not the date borne on the journal.223 In PavanyOuseph v
Registrar of Trademarks224, the notice of opposition was accepted by the Registrar
under the Trademarks Ac t 1940 on the ground that the Journal was published
belatedly and that, therefore, the notice of opposition filed within four months
from the date of publication of the Trademarks Journal, was within time. But the
applicant who sought registration of the mark took the matter on appeal to the
High Court, who held:
The object of advertising that an application for the registration of a trade
mark has been received by the Registrar is obviously to let public know
about it and to invite opposition to it, if any. That subject will be served
only when the journal is disturbing among the subscribers or otherwise
made available to the public and not when it is got printed or few copies
or cuttings disturbed among the subordinate offices of the Trademarks
Registry or among the applicants for registration.
Agreeing with the aforesaid judgment, the Division Bench of Madras High
Court in Nalli Sambasivam and Another v Deputy Registrar of Trademarks,225
222Whirlpool Corporation v Registrar of Trademarks (1998) 8 SSC 1, p 15
223Siyaram Kumar Engineering Works Private Limited v The Assistant Registrar of Trademarks
and Another (1996) 2 DLT 179.
224 AIR 1952 Tra&Coch 77
225 (2007) 34 PTC 553 (Mad) (DB)
186
held that ‘if the words “date of the advertisement” are given any other meaning, it
would virtually amount to curtailing the period of limitation. Even for determining
the period of limitation either under the Limitations Act, 1963 or under the Code
of Civil Procedure, 1908, it is always the date on which the certified copies of the
judgments and decrees are made available, that is taken into account for the
purpose of calculating limitation.’
V.4.f.(i). Notice of Opposition
According to r 47 of the Trademarks Rules 2002, a notice of opposition to
the registration of a trade mark under s 21 (1) shall be given in triplicate in Form
TM-5 within three months or within such further period not exceeding one month
in the aggregate from the date the Journal is made available to the public (which
date shall be certified by the Registrar as such). The notice include a statements of
the grounds upon which the opponent objects to the registration. If the registration
is opposed on the ground that the marks in question resembles marks already on
the registrar, the registration numbers of such trademarks and the dates of the
Journals in which they have been advertised shall be set out.
Where a notice of opposition has been filed in respect of a single
application for the registration of a trade mark, it shall bear the fee in respect of
each class in relation to which the opposition is filed in Form TM-5.
Where an opposition is filed only for a particular class or classes in respect
of a single application made under s 18(2), the application for remaining class or
classes shall not proceed to registration until a respect in Form TM-53 for division
of the application together with the divisional fee is made by the applicant.
187
Where in respect of a single application for the registration of a trade
mark, no notice of opposition is filed in a class or classes, the application in
respect of such class or classes shall subject to s 19 and s 23(1), proceed to
registration after the division of the application in the class or classes in respect of
which an opposition is pending.
All notice of opposition to registration of a trade mark for goods for
services received in respect of a particular Journal shall be published in the
Journal. However, it shall not be constructed to presume that all remaining
trademarks from a particular journal so published shall automatically proceed to
registration.
An application for an extension of the period within which a notice of
opposition to the registration of a trade mark may be given under s 21(1), shall be
made in Form TM-44 accompanied by the fee prescribed in First Schedule before
the expiry of the period of three months under s 21(1). A copy of notice of
opposition shall be ordinarily served by the Registrar to the applicants within
three months of the receipt of the same by the appropriate office.
V.4.f.(ii). Prescribed Manner and on Payment of the Prescribed Fee Section
21(1)
In BDA Private Limited v Paul P John226 the Delhi High Court observed
that an examination of s 21(1) of the Act reveals that any person may give a notice
in writing ‘in the prescribed manner’ to the Registrar of his opposition in respect
of an application for registration. Such notice is required to be given within three
226(2008) 37 PTC 41 (Del), p 53.
188
months from the date of advertisement for re-advertisement of the application for
registration. It may, however, be given during a further period, not exceeding one
month in the aggregate, as the Registrar allows. However, the extension has to be
applied for ‘in the prescribed manner and on payment of the prescribed fee’. What
is interesting is that s 21(1) refers to the application for extension of time as also
to the notice of opposition. Insofar as the application for extension of tome is
concerned, the said provision uses the expression ‘in the prescribed manner and
on payment of the fee’. However, in respect of the notice of opposition the
expansion used is- ‘in the prescribed manner’. It is important to note that the
expression ‘and on payment of the prescribed fee’ is absent on respect of the
notice of opposition. Rule 47 deals with notice of opposition to the registration of
a trademark under s 21(1) shall be given in triplicate in Form TM-5 within the
stipulated period.
Rule 47(6) pertains to the application for extension of the period within
which a notice of opposition may be given. It stipulates that such an application
shall be made in Form TM-44 ‘accompanied by the fee prescribed in First
Schedule’ before the expiry of the period of three months under s 21(1). Here ,
again, one notices the distinction between the requirement of the prescribed fee
accompanying the application for extension of the period within which a notice of
opposition may be given and the provision pertaining to the notice of opposition
being filed in triplicate in Form TM-5 without any reference to it being
accompanied by the prescribed fee. However, r 47(2) indicates that where a notice
of opposition has been filed in respect of a single application for registration of a
189
trade mark, it shall bear the fee in respect of each class in relation to which the
opposition is filed in Form TM-5.
V.4.f.(iii). Counter –Statement
The counter-statement required by s 21(2) shall be sent in triplicate in
Form TM-6 within two months from the receipt by the applicant of the copy of
the notice of opposition from the Registrar and shall set out what facts, if any,
alleged in the notice of opposition, are admitted by the applicant. A copy of the
counterstatement shall be ordinarily served by the Registrar to the opponent
within two months from the date of receipt of the same. The counterstatement
shall be verified in the same manner as the opposition as started in r 48(1)(e)227.
V.4.f.(iv). Evidence in Support of Opposition
According to r 50, within two months from service on him of a copy of the
counter-statement or within such further period not exceeding one month in the
aggregate thereafter as the Registrar may on request allow, the opponent shall
either leave with the Registrar, such evidence by way of affidavit as he may desire
to adduce in support of his opposition or shall intimate to the Registrar and to the
applicant in writing that he does not desire to adduce evidence in support of his
opposition but intends to rely on the faces started in the notice of opposition. He
shall deliver to the applicant copies of any evidence that he leaves with the
Registrar and intimate the Registrar in writing of such delivery.
If any opponent takes no action within the aforesaid time, he shall be
deemed to have abandoned his opposition. An application for the extension of
227R.49 of Trademark Rules 2002.
190
period of one month shall be made in Form TM-56 accompanied by the prescribed
fee before the expiry of period of two months as mentioned above.
The Registrar shall hear the parties and decide the opposition as per the
provisions laid down in r 56 of the Trademarks Rules 2002. The security for costs
which the Registrar may require under s 21(6) may be fixed at any amount which
he may consider proper, and such amount may be further enhanced by him at any
stage in the opposition proceedings228.
V.4.g. Counter-statement from the Applicant
The Registrar is duty bound to serve a copy of the notice on the applicant
for registration. The applicant shall send a counter-statement of the grounds on
which he relies for his application within two months from the receipt of such
copy of the notice of opposition. If the applicant fails to do so, he shall be deemed
to have abandoned his application. If the applicant sends such counter-statement,
the Registrar shall serve a copy thereof on the opponent.
V.4.h. Submission of Evidences and the Decision of
Registrar
Any evidence upon which the opponent and the applicant may rely is to be
submitted to the Registrar within the prescribed time. The Registrar shall give
them an opportunity of being heard, if they so desire.
The Registrar may require the opponent or applicant to give security for
the costs of proceedings before him, where such opponent or applicant, as the case
228 R. 47 of Trademark Rules 2002.
191
may be, neither resides nor carries on business in India subsequently. In default of
such security being duly given, the registrar may treat the opposition or
application, as the case may be, as abandoned.The Registrar may, on request,
permit correction of any error in, or any amendment of, a notice of opposition or a
counter-statement on such terms as he thinks just.
V.4.i. Registration
A trade mark is registered under s 23. When an application for registration
of a trade has been accepted and either- (i) the application has not been opposed
and the time for notice of opposition has expired; or (ii) the application has been
opposed and the opposition has been decided in favour of the applicant, the
Registrar shall register the said trade mark unless the Central Government directs
otherwise. A trade mark shall be registered as of the date of making of the said
application. The date of application is to be deemed to be the date of registration.
V.4.i.(i). Particulars of Entry in the Register
On registration, the entry of a trade mark in the register shall specify the date
of filling of application, the actual date of the registration, the goods or services
and the class or classes in respect of which it is registered, and all particulars
required by s 6(1)229 including:
229 According to s 6(1), following entries are to be made in the register of Trademarks- all
registered trademarks with the names, addresses and description of the proprietors, notifications of
assignment and transmissions, the names, addresses and descriptions of registered users,
conditions, limitations and other prescribed matter relating to registered trademarks.
192
(i) the address of the principal place of business in India of the proprietor
of the trade mark, if any;
(ii) Where the proprietor of the trade mark has no place of business in
India, his address for service in India as entered in the application for
registration together with his address in his home country
(iii) Particulars of trade, business, profession, occupation or other
description of the proprietor
(iv) Particulars effecting the scope of the registration or the rights
conferred by the registration
(v) The convention application date, to be accorded pursuant to an
application from applicants of a convention country made under
section 154
(vi) Where the mark is a collective or certification mark, that fact
(vii) Where the mark is registered pursuant to section 11(4) with the consent
of the proprietor of an earlier trade mark or other earlier right, that fact
and
(viii) The appropriate office of the trade mark registry in relation to the trade
mark230
V.4.i.(ii). Issuance of Certificate of Registration
On the registration of a trade mark, the registrar is obliged to issue a
certificate of registration to the applicant which is to be sealed with the seal of the
trade mark registry. The certificate is to be issued in Form O-2, with such
230 R 59(2), Trade Mark rules 2002.
193
modification as the circumstances of any case may require, and the Registrar shall
annex a copy of the trade mark to the certificate.
V.4.i.(iii). Abandonment of Application
Where registration of a trade mark is not completed within twelve months
from the date of the application by reason of default on part of the applicant, the
Registrar may, after giving notice to the applicant, treat the application as
abandoned unless it is completed within the time specified in the notice. The
Registrar may amend the register or a certificate of registration for the purpose of
correcting a clerical error or an obvious mistake.
In Ciba Ltd vsM.Ramalimgam231 the court stated that it is incumbent upon
the registrar to register a trade mark if there is no opposition. The provision must
be read subject to the substantive provision of the Act which prohibits the
registration of the trade mark under certain circumstances.
Under section 23(1) if the application has not been opposed and the time
for giving the notice of opposition has expired or if the application has been
opposed and the opposition has been decided in favour of the applicant, the
Registrar is ‘unless the Central Government otherwise directs’ to register the set
trade mark in Part A or Part B of the Register, as the case may be. The trade mark
when registered is to be registered as of the date of the making of the application
for registration and such date is to be deemed to be the date of registration. A
similar provision existed in section 16 of the 1940 Act232
231 AIR 1958 Bom 56
232 American Home Products Corpn v Mac Laboratories (P) Ltd (1998) 8 SCC 1, p.15
194
In Whirlpool Corporation vs Registrar of Trademarks233 the Supreme
Court stated that after disposal of advertisement and opposition proceedings, there
comes the stage of registration of trade mark under section 23 of the trade and
merchandise marks Act of 1958 which provides that if the application is not
opposed, and the period of filing opposition has expired or opposition has been
decided in favour of the applicant, the registrar shall register a trade mark either in
Part A or Part B of the register and issue a certificate of registration
V.4.j. Jointly Owned Trademarks
The Act does not 194lobaliza the registration of two or more persons as
joint proprietors who use a trade mark independently or propose so to use it.
However, where the relations between two or more persons interested in a
trade mark are such that no one of them is entitled as between himself and other(s)
to use it except: (i) on behalf of both or all of them or (ii) in relation to an article
or service with which both or all of them are connected in course of the trade, then
those persons may be registered as joint proprietors of the trade mark. The Act
shall have affect in relation to any rights to use of the trade mark vested in those
persons as if those rights had been vested in a single person.
V.4.k. Preliminary advice by The Registrar as to
Distinctiveness
According to s.133, on an application made by any person who proposes to apply
for the registration of a trade mark, the Registrar may give advice as to whether
233(1998) 8 SCC 1, p.15.
195
the trade mark appears as to him prima facie to be distinctive. Where the Registrar
has given such advice in affirmative and an application for registration is made
within three months, the applicant shall be entitled to get back any fee paid, after
giving notice of withdrawal of the application within the prescribed period, if the
Registrar after further investigation or consideration decides that the trade mark is
not distinctive.
V.4.l. Duration of Registration
The duration of registration of a trade mark under s 25 is 10 years. But it
may be renewed from time to time234. The initial duration of registration of a trade
mark under the Trade and Merchandise Marks Act 1958 was seven years.
Thereafter, the registration was renewable from time to time. The reason for this
amendment was to adopt the generally accepted international practice and to
reduce the workload of the Trade Mark Office.
The initial duration of registration of a trade mark under the Trade and
Merchandise Marks Act 1958 was seven years. Thereafter, the registration was
renewable from time to time. The reason for this amendment was to adopt the
234 Under s 25 of the 1958 Act, which corresponds to s 18 of the 1940 Act, the registration of a
trade mark is to be for a period of seven years (ten years under the 1999 Act), but can be renewed
from time to time on application made by the registered proprietor of the trade mark in the
prescribed manner and within the prescribed period and subject to the payment of the prescribed
fee. The renewal of the registration of a trade mark is to be for a period of seven years ( ten years
under the 1999 Act) from the date of expiration of the original registration or the last renewal of
registration, as the case may be: American Home Products Corpn v Mac Laboratories (P) Ltd 1
SCC 465, p 481
196
generally accepted international practice and to reduce the workload of the Trade
Mark Office.
In Whirlpool Corporation v Registrar of Trademarks235 the Supreme
Court stated that registration of a trade mark is done initially for a period of seven
years (ten years under the Trade and Merchandise Marks Act 1958) which can be
renewed from time to time in accordance with the provisions of s 25. The renewal
can be obtained by making an application to the Registrar in the prescribed
manner within the prescribed period and on payment of the prescribed fee. The
renewal will be for another period of seven years (ten years under the Trade and
Merchandise Marks Act 1958). Sub-sections (3) and (4) of s 25 provide that the
Registrar, at the prescribed time before the expiration of the last registration of the
trade mark, shall send a notice to the registered proprietor of the date of expiration
and the conditions as to payment of the fees upon which a renewal of registration
may be obtained. If, at the expiration of the time prescribed in that behalf, those
conditions have not been duly compiled with, the Registrar may remove the trade
mark from the Register. But the trade mark can be restored and it can be renewed
provided an application is made within one year from the expiration of the last
registration and provided the Registrar is satisfied that it would be just so to do.
V.4.l.(i). Renewal
Rule 63 of the Trade Mark Rules 2002 provides that an application for the
renewal of the registration of a trade mark shall be made in Form TM-12 and may
be made at any time not more than six months before the expiration of the last
registration of the trade mark. Such application for renewal may be filed by the
235 (1998) 8 SCC 1, p 15
197
person who is the proprietor of the registered trade mark or his agent. The
Registrar may accept an application for renewal from the managing trustee,
executors, administrators and the like, when supported by court order or other
evidence of authority to act on behalf of the present proprietor.
If the proprietor in the application for renewal is not the same person or
the same legal entity as the registered proprietor, continuity of the title from the
registered proprietor in whose name the last renewal was effected to the present
owner shall be shown in the first instance by war of affidavit along with the
supporting chain of documents.
The renewal of registration of a collective mark or a certification trade
mark shall be made in Form TM-12 along with the prescribed fee specified in the
First schedule [Trademarks Rules 2002. In Tetragon Chemie (P) Ltd v
Government of India 236 the court stated that as per s 25 read with r 69 of the
Trade and Merchandise Marks Act 1958, before cancellation/ removal of the trade
mark from the register, prior notice should be issued. There is no material
available to show that such a notice has been issued to the petitioner before such
removal. Be that as it may, it was for the petitioner as well to make an application
for renewal along with payment of the prescribed fee every seven years so as to
retain the patent. Further through the order of rejection has been communicated; to
seek review of the order as contemplated would be rather difficult for the
petitioner to assail the said order now.
236 (2007) 35 PTC 875 (Kant), pp 875-76
198
In the absence of any such notice being issued to the petitioner, the order
of the respondent authority removing the name of the petitioner from the stating
that there is non-payment of the renewal fee within the prescribed time would be
prejudicial to the petitioner. In the facts and circumstances of the case, to enable
the petitioner to make renewal application, one more opportunity could be
afforded by quashing the impugned order.
V.4.l.(ii). Restoration and Renewal-Section 25(4)
An application for the restoration of a trade mark to the register and
renewal of its registration under s 25(4) shall be made in Form TM-13 after six
months and within one year from the expiration of the last registration of the trade
mark accompanied by the prescribed fee. The Registrar shall, while considering
the request for such restoration and renewal have regard to the interest of other
affected persons (See Trademarks Rules 2002, r 66).
Upon the renewal or restoration and renewal of registration, a notice to
that effect shall be sent to the registered proprietor and every registered user and
the renewal or restoration and renewal shall be advertised in the Journal (See
Trademarks Rules 2002, r 67).
V.4.m. Renewal of Registration
On an application made by the registered proprietor of a trade mark in the
prescribed manner and within the prescribed period and subject to the payment of
the prescribed fee, the Registrar shall renew the registration of the trade mark for a
period of ten years from the date of expiration of the original or of the last renewal
of the registration, as the case may be. The Registrar shall, however, not
199
remove trade mark from the register and renew it for a period of ten years if an
application is made in the prescribed form and the prescribed fee and the
surcharge is paid within six months form the expiration of the 1stregistration of the
trade mark.
V.4.n. Restoration of Registration
Where a trade mark has been removed from the register for non-payment
of the prescribed fee., the Registrar shall on receipt of an application and on
payment of the prescribed fee between six months to one year from the expiration
of the last registration of the trade mark, if satisfied that it is just so to do, restore
the trade mark to the register and renew the registration of the trade mark for a
period of ten years either generally or subject to such conditions or limitations as
he thinks fit to impose.
An application for the restoration of a trade mark to the register and
renewal of its registration under s 25(4) shall be made in Form TM-13 after six
months and within one year from the expiration of the last registration of the trade
mark accompanied by the prescribed fee. The Registrar shall, while considering
the request for such restoration and renewal have regard to the interest of other
affected persons237.Upon the renewal or restoration and renewal of registration, a
notice to that effect shall be sent to the registered proprietor and every registered
user and the renewal of restoration and renewal shall be advertised in the
Journal238.
237 Trademarks Rules 2002, r66
238 Trademarks Rules 2002, r 67
200
V.4.o. Removal of Trade Mark
Before the expiration of the last registration of a trade mark, the Registrar
is duty bound to send notice at the prescribed time and in the prescribed manner to
the registered proprietor of the date of expiration and the conditions as to payment
of fees and otherwise upon which a renewal of registration may be obtained. The
Registrar may remove the trade mark from the register if at the expiration of the
prescribed time, those conditions have not been duly compiled with. The Registrar
shall advertise the fact forthwith in the Journal.
At a date not less than three months before the expiration of the last
registration of a trade mark, if no application in Form TM-12 for renewal of the
registration together with the prescribed fee has been received the Registrar shall
notify the registered proprietor or in case of a jointly registered trade mark each of
the joint registered proprietors and each registered user, if any, in writing in Form
O-3 of the approaching expiration at the address of their respective principal
places of business in India as entered in the register or where such registered
proprietor or registered user has no principal place of business in India at his
address for service in India entered in the Register.
Where, in the case of a mark the registration of which (by reference to the
date of application for registration) becomes due for renewal, the mark is
registered at any time six months before the date on which renewal is due, the
registration may be renewed by the payment of the renewal fee within six months
after the actual date of registration and where the renewal fee is not paid within
that period the Registrar shall subject to r 66, remove the mark from the register.
201
Where, in the case of a mark the registration of which (by reference to the
date of application for registration) becomes due for renewal, the mark is
registered after the date of renewal, the registration may be renewed by the
payment of the renewal fee within the six months of actual date of registration and
where the renewal fee is not paid within that period the Registrar shall, subject to r
66, remove the mark from the register239
If, at the expiration of the last registration of a trade mark, the renewal fees
have not been paid, the Registrar may remove the trade mark from the register and
advertise the fact forthwith in the Journal. Provided that the Registrar shall not
remove the trade mark from the register if an application for payment of surcharge
is made under proviso to s 25(3) in Form TM-10 within six months from the
expiration of the last registration of the trade mark.
V.4.p. Effect of Removal from Register
Section 26 provides that where a trade mark has been removed from the
register for failure to pay the renewal fee, it shall nevertheless, for the purpose of
any application for the registration of another trade mark during one year next
after the date of the removal, be deemed to be a trade mark already on the register
unless the tribunal ( Registrar or appellate Board, as the case may be) is satisfied
either: (i) that there has been no bona fide trade use of the trade mark which has
been removed during the two years immediately preceding its removal; or (ii) that
no deception or confusion would be likely to raise from the use of the trade mark
239 Trade Mark Rules 2002, r 64
202
which is the subject of the application for registration by reason of any previous
use of the trade mark which has been removed.
In Whirlpool Corporation v Registrar of Trademarks240the Supreme Court
stated that once a trade mark has been removed from the trade mark has been
removed from the register for failure to pay the fee for renewal, it would,
nevertheless, be deemed to be a trade mark already on the register fir a period of
one year for purposes of any application for registration of another trade mark,
unless the ‘Tribunal’ is satisfied either:
(a) That there has been no bona fide trade use of the trade mark which has been
removed during the years immediately preceding its removal; or
(b) That no deception or confusion would be likely to arise from the use of the
trade mark which is the subject of the application for registration by reason
of any previous use of the trade mark which has been removed.
V.5. REGISTRATION OF TEXTILE GOODS
Chapter X of the TrademarksAct 1999 i.e Sections 79 to 82 and
corresponding rules 141 to 147 of the Trademark Rules 2000 deal with the
concept of textile goods and.
Registration of Textile goods
Section 79 gives power to the Central Government to prescribe classes of goods
as textile goods, which are to be known as textile goods and to which the special
provisions would apply.
240 (1998) 8 SCC 1, p 15
203
Restriction on Registration of Textile Goods:
Section 80 lays down restrictions on registration of marks in respect of textile
goods.It provides that in respect of textile goods being piece goods-
a) No mark consisting of a line heading alone shall be registrable as
trademark;
b) Line heading shall not be deemed to be capable of distinguishing;
c) The registration of trademark shall not give any exclusive right to the
use of a line heading.
Sec. 80(2) enacts that in respect of any textile goods, the registration of letters or
numerals, or any combination thereof, shall be subject to such conditions and
restrictions as may be prescribed.
Procedure for registration of Numbers or letters or any combination for
textile goods:
Rule 145 says that where a mark consists exclusively of letters or numerals
or any combination thereof, shall be made on Form TM-22 or TM-45.Items of 5th
Schedule are grouped together in to 1 to 15 groups and goods falling in each
group is deemed to be similar goods. Goods falling in different groups are not
deemed to be similar for the purpose of application for registration of TMs
consisting exclusively of letters or numerals or any combination thereof,Rule 146
declares that in respect of textile goods certain types of marks are not capable of
registration. They are:
204
Any numerals of one digit or of more than six digits not being a balanced
number.
Single letter or any combination of letters of more than six letters, not
being a balanced numeral;
Any combination of numerals and letters of more than eight digits;
Fraction or letter fraction or any combination of fraction and numerals;
Numerals or letters representing cloth dimensions, etc
Rule 147 stipulates as to what marks are likely to deceive or cause confusion,
where it consists of Numerals, letters, fractions, letter fractions, or any
combination thereof and thus not capable of being registered.
V.6. ROLE OF IPAB AND ITS FUNCTIONS
Constitution
Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB) has been constituted by a
Gazette notification of the Central Government in the Ministry of Commerce and
Industry on 15th September 2003 to hear appeals against the decisions of the
Registrar under the Trademarks Act, 1999 and the Geographical Indications of
Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. IPAB has its Headquarters at
Chennai and shall have sittings at Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and
Ahmadabad.
Role of IPAB
The Intellectual Property Appellate Board plays a very important role. In respect
of trademarks an:-
205
1. Appeal from an order or decision of the Registrar of Trademarks can be
filed before the IPAB.
2. Appeals from an order or decision of the Registrar of Trademarks issued
under Rule 162 of the Trademarks Rules, 2002 can be filed before the
IPAB.
3. Original application for rectification of the Register of Trademarks under
Section 47 or 57 of the Trademarks Act, 1999 can be filed before IPAB.
4. Also original application for rectification of the register under Section 125
of the Trademarks Act, 1999 can be filed before the IPAB.
Time Limit
An appeal to the IPAB should be filed within 3 months from the date on
which the order or decision to be appealed against is communicated to such
person preferring the appeal.An appeal may be admitted after 3 months if the
appellant satisfies the appellate board that he had sufficient cause for not
preferring the appeal within 3 months.
Functions of the Deputy Registrar:-
(1) The Deputy Registrar shall discharge the functions under the general
superintendence of the Chairman. He shall discharge such other functions
as are assigned to him under the Intellectual Property Appellate Board
(Procedure) Rules, 2003 or by the Chairman by a separate order in writing.
(2) He shall have the custody of the records of the Appellate Board.
(3) The official seal of the Appellate Board shall be kept in the custody of the
Deputy Registrar.
206
(4) Subject to any general or special directions of the Chairman, the official
seal of the Appellate Board shall not be affixed to any order, summons or
other process save under the authority in writing from the Deputy
Registrar.
(5) The official seal of the Appellate Board shall not be affixed to any
certified copy issued by the Appellate Board save under the authority in
writing of the Deputy Registrar.
Additional functions and duties of the Deputy Registrar:-
In addition to the functions and duties assigned under rule 26, the Deputy
Registrar shall have the following functions and duties subject to any general or
special orders of the Chairman, namely:–
IX. to receive all applications, appeals, counter statements, replies
and other documents;
(ii) to decide all questions arising out of the scrutiny of the appeals and
applications before they are registered;
(iii) to require any application, appeal, counter statement, replies
presented to the Appellate Board to be amended in accordance with the
rules;
(iv) subject to the directions of the Chairman, to fix date of hearing of the
applications or appeals or other proceedings and issue notices therefore;
(v) direct any formal amendment of records;
(vi) to order supply of copies of documents to parties to proceedings;