• Similarity to Existing Marks: If the proposed trademark is too similar to an existing registered trademark or pending application, it can lead to an objection. The Registrar may consider it likely to cause confusion among consumers.
• Descriptive or Generic Terms: Trademarks that describe the goods or services they represent or use generic terms are often objected to because they lack distinctiveness.
• Offensive or Immoral Content: Trademarks that contain offensive, immoral, or scandalous content may be objected to on moral or public order grounds.
• Deceptive Marks: If a trademark is likely to deceive the public regarding the nature, quality, or origin of goods or services, it can be objected to.
• Geographical Indications: Trademarks that falsely suggest a geographical origin of goods or services can face objections, as they may mislead consumers.
• Well-Known Trademarks: If a trademark is identical or similar to a well-known trademark, it can be objected to to protect the rights of the well-known trademark owner.
• Non-Distinctive or Non-Unique Designs: Trademarks that consist of common shapes, symbols, or designs may be objected to if they lack distinctiveness.
• Improper Use of National Symbols: Using national symbols, emblems, or flags in a trademark without proper authorization can lead to objections.
• Errors in Application: Technical errors, missing documents, or incomplete information in the trademark application can result in objections.
• Inadequate Specification of Goods/Services: A lack of clarity or specificity in the description of goods or services associated with the trademark can lead to objections.

1. Report on authorised document
2. Trademark examination report
3. Identification documentation
4. Process for address verification in trademark opposition

1. Follow the progress of your trademark application
2. Look into the trademark complaint
3. File a trademark objection reply
4. Review and double-check the response before filing
5. Obtain commentary on the department’s response
6. If your response is positive, your trademark will be published in the trademark journal
7. As an applicant it is mandatory to appear during the hearing of The trademark.

A trademark examination report is a document issued by the trademark office that analyzes a trademark application and determines whether it meets the requirements for registration. The report will identify any potential objections to registration and will provide the applicant with an opportunity to respond to those objections.

It will typically include the following information:
*The name of the applicant
*The trademark that is being applied for
*The goods or services that the trademark will be used for
*The results of the trademark search
*Any potential objections to registration
*The applicant’s response to the objections
*The trademark office’s decision on whether to register the trademark

Timelines for Filing Reply to Examination Report
For Ordinary Applications:
~4 months: This is the standard timeframe for filing a reply to an Examination Report for an ordinary trademark application. This period starts from the date of receiving the report.
~Extension of time: If you need more time to prepare your reply, you can request an extension of up to 30 days from the Controller of Trademarks. You can file a request for extension along with the prescribed fee before the deadline expires.
For Fast-Track Applications:
~3 months: Since fast-track applications are prioritized for processing., the deadline is shorter at 3 months from the date of receiving the Examination Report.
~Extension of time: Similar to ordinary applications, you can request an extension of up to 30 days for filing your reply.

Consequences of not filing a reply within the deadline:
~Abandonment of application: If you fail to file a reply within the stipulated timeframe, your trademark application will be deemed abandoned. This means you will lose your priority date and will have to file a new application if you still want to register the trademark.
~Loss of opportunity to address objections: Failing to file a reply also means you forfeit the chance to address the examiner’s concerns and potentially overcome the objections raised. This could significantly delay or even prevent the registration of your trademark.