Section 76: Officers and employees not to furnish information, etc.
An officer or employee in the patent office shall not, except when required or authorised by this Act or under a direction in writing of the 1[Central Government 2*** ] or the Controller or by order of a court,--
(a) furnish information on a matter which is being, or has been, or dealt with under this Act 3***;
(b) prepare or assist in the preparation of a document required or permitted by or under this Act 3*** to be lodged in the patent office; or
(c) conduct a search in the records of the patent office.
1. Subs. by Act 38 of 2002, s. 36, for Central Government (w.e.f. 20-5-2003). 2. The words “or Appellate Board” omitted by Act 33 of 2021, s. 13 (w.e.f. 4-4-2021). 3. The words and figures or under the Indian Patents or Designs Act, 1911 (2 of 1911) omitted by s. 36, ibid. (w.e.f. 20-5-2003).
Disclaimer: This section is reproduced for general informational and reference purposes only. Always verify against the latest official gazette and consult a qualified advocate before relying on any provision.