JUDGMENT

Prathiba M. Singh, J. (Oral)

1. The present petition has been filed by the Petitioner/Opponent-Natco Pharma Ltd. (hereinafter `Opponent') in respect of pre-grant opposition proceedings against the patent application of Respondent No.4/Applicant- Novartis A.G. (hereinafter `Applicant'). The prayer in the petition is to set aside the order dated 16th September, 2021 passed by the Asst. Controller refusing the Opponent's application seeking cross-examination of the Applicant's witnesses. The reliefs sought are:

"a. A writ in the nature of certiorari quashing/setting aside the Impugned Order dated 16.09.2021, and a writ in the nature of mandamus and/or any other appropriate writ, order or direction, directing the Respondent Authorities to pass appropriate directions to enable the Petitioner an opportunity to cross examine Dr. Michael Motto, Dr. Allan S. Myerson and Dr. Gauri Billa in an expeditious and time bound manner in pre grant opposition proceedings preferred by the Petitioner in Application No. 4412/DELNP/2007; and

b. A writ in the nature of mandamus and/or any other appropriate writ, order or direction, directing the Respondent Authorities to pass appropriate directions