Patent Revocation in Mumbai, India

A patent once granted provides the inventor with exclusive rights. However, these rights are not absolute. In certain circumstances, a patent may be challenged and cancelled through patent revocation in India. The revocation of patents ensures that rights are not misused and that the patent system continues to protect genuine inventions.

The process allows interested parties or even the Government of India to question the validity of a granted patent. From lack of novelty to non-compliance with statutory requirements, several grounds exist under the procedure for revocation of patent.

Businesses, inventors, and stakeholders need to understand how patent revocation works, its consequences, and the steps involved.

Legal Grounds for Revocation of Patents

The revocation of patents in India can only be sought on specific legal grounds recognised under the Patents Act, 1970. These grounds are designed to ensure that only valid, novel, and legally compliant inventions enjoy patent protection. Understanding these legal provisions is essential before initiating the procedure for revocation of a patent in India.

1. Statutory Grounds for Revocation

The Patents Act, 1970 clearly sets out conditions under which a patent may be revoked. Some key grounds include:

• Lack of novelty or inventive step.
• Non-patentable subject matter under Indian law.
• Insufficient disclosure in the specification.
• Obtaining the patent through misrepresentation or fraud.
• Non-working of the patent in India.

2. Revocation by the Government or Interested Party

The revocation of patent notes that a patent may be challenged by:

• Any person interested (competitors, stakeholders).
• The Central Government in public interest.
• The patent holder themselves, through voluntary surrender.

Procedure for Revocation of Patent in India

The procedure for revocation of patent is well-defined under the Patents Act:-

  1. Filing a Petition – A petition for patent revocation in India is filed before the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB) or High Court.
  2. Grounds Stated – The petitioner must clearly outline the grounds for revocation of patents.
  3. Notice to Patentee – The patent holder is given a chance to respond and defend the patent.
  4. Hearing and Evidence – Both parties present arguments, technical evidence, and expert opinions.
  5. Decision of the Authority – If the authority finds the grounds valid, the patent is revoked.


This structured process ensures that revocation is not arbitrary but based on proper legal examination.

Benefits of Patent Revocation

While revocation may appear disadvantageous for a patentee, it plays a significant role in the larger ecosystem:-

  • Encourages genuine innovation by preventing monopoly over non-inventive or obvious ideas.
  • Protects public interest when patents block essential technologies.
  • Ensures compliance with Indian patent law.
  • Prevents abuse of rights where patents are misused against competitors.

Documentation Requirements for Revocation of Patents

To initiate patent revocation, the following documents are generally required:-

  • Petition for revocation of patent.
  • Copy of the granted patent certificate.
  • Evidence supporting the grounds of revocation.
  • Affidavits or expert declarations (if any).
  • Payment of prescribed government fees.


Proper filing ensures smooth progress in the revocation procedure.

Types of Revocation of Patent

The law provides for different categories of revocation depending on who initiates it:-

  1. Revocation by Petition – Filed by an interested party on legal grounds.
  2. Revocation in Public Interest – Initiated by the Central Government.
  3. Revocation for Non-Working – If the patented invention is not worked in India.
  4. Voluntary Revocation – When a patentee surrenders the patent.


Each type has distinct legal requirements, but all ensure that patents serve their intended purpose of encouraging innovation.

Compliance and Legal Considerations

Businesses seeking to challenge or defend a patent must comply with Indian intellectual property law. Legal complexities often arise in:-

  • Drafting and filing the revocation petition.
  • Presenting strong technical evidence.
  • Responding to counterclaims by the patent holder.
  • Handling appeals in higher courts.


Professional legal support is crucial to navigate these steps successfully.

Step-by-Step Process Simplified Patent Revocation

  1. Identify valid grounds for revocation.
  2. Gather necessary documents and supporting evidence.
  3. File the petition before the appropriate authority.
  4. Respond to notices and attend hearings.
  5. Await decision and comply with orders.


This structured approach minimises risks and ensures compliance.

If you are facing challenges with an invalid patent or need to defend your intellectual property, expert legal guidance is essential. Our team provides end-to-end assistance in patent revocation in India, from assessing grounds to representing clients before authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is patent revocation?

Patent revocation is the legal cancellation of a granted patent based on specific grounds under the Patents Act.

Any interested party, the Central Government, or even the patentee through voluntary surrender can initiate revocation.

Lack of novelty, fraudulent procurement, insufficient disclosure, or non-patentable subject matter are common grounds.

The timeline depends on case complexity, evidence, and appeals. It can take several months to a few years.

Yes. Due to the technical and legal nature of the process, professional legal assistance is highly recommended.

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