September 12, 2026

Section 131 – Patents Act, 1970

131. Power of Controller to refuse to deal with certain agents

(1) The Controller may refuse to recognise as an agent: (a) an individual whose name was removed from and not restored to the register; (b) a person convicted under section 123; (c) an unregistered person who, in the Controller’s opinion, is mainly engaged in acting as agent for patent applications in the name or for the benefit of his employer; or (d) a company or firm where such a disqualified person is a director, manager or partner.

(2) The Controller shall refuse to recognise as agent any person without residence or place of business in India.