Justice K.N.Basha, a retired judge of the Madras High Court, on Wednesday assumed charge as chairman of the Intellectual Property Appellate Tribunal (IPAB).
Mr. Basha is the fourth retired judge to assume office as chairperson since the inception of IPAB in 2003.
The IPAB was constituted by the Union government to adjudicate cases related to trade mark, patent, design and geographical indications of goods. The Board has its headquarters in Chennai and holds circuit bench sittings in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Ahmedabad.
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During 2012 – 13, 362 cases– 310 trade mark and 52 patent matters – were disposed of. However, the IPAB faces problems such as inadequate manpower, shortage of building space and insufficient fund allocation.
After assuming charge on Wednesday, Mr.Justice Basha told The Hindu that he would accord top most priority to getting infrastructure facilities for the Board.
“My first priority is to get a good place with sufficient space to accommodate advocates and litigants who participate in the proceedings, as the present place is very cramped. I am told that place to keep records, documents and books was not sufficient. Advocates come all the way from other States, apart from Tamil Nadu. So, my utmost priority is to give accommodation”, said Mr.Justice Basha.
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Stating that as on date, there was no pendency in Chennai, he said, “A number cases are being filed in New Delhi and I will try to reduce the pendency there also.”
Mr.Basha will hold the post till he attains the age of 65, as per a communication from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.