In its order dated 02, March 2020, the Central Government has notified the continuation of Justice (retd.) Manmohan Singh as Chairman of the Intellectual Property Board (IPAB).

Justice Singh is scheduled to hold the Office of Chairman, IPAB for a period of one year beyond attaining the age of 65 years i.e. up to September 21, 2020, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

This notice marks his continuation of the post.

The order read:

"In supersession of this Department's Office Order of even number dated 20th September 2019 and in compliance with the order dated 18.12.2019 passed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court in WP No. 1431/2019, the President is hereby pleased to allow the continuation of Justice (Retd) Manmohan Singh to the post of Chairman, Intellectual Property Appellate Board, Chennai for a further period of one year beyond attaining the age of 65 years i.e. up to 21.09.2020, or until further orders, whichever is earlier."

The Delhi High Court has recently shown concern over the functioning and condition of IPAB.

The High Court had taken note that the IPAB was currently not functioning as the approval for the extension of the term of the Chairperson was pending before the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC).

While displaying the concern, the High Court opined that in view of the Supreme Court's order passed in December 2019, which had extended the term of the IPAB Chairperson for a period of one year after he attained the age of superannuation, prima facie, no further approval was required.

 

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