"Comprehensive Guide to Company Secretary Compliances Under the Companies Act, 2013"

In the structured ecosystem of corporate governance, especially within a Private Limited Company , the Scrutinizer plays a vital role in upholding transparency and trust during voting processes. While their presence is more often discussed in the context of public companies, the appointment of a Scrutinizer is also significant in Private Limited Companies , particularly when decisions are made through voting at general meetings or via postal or electronic ballots. In this blog, we’ll break down the role, responsibilities, legal framework, and practical application of a Scrutinizer in a Private Limited Company. Who is a Scrutinizer? A Scrutinizer is an impartial and independent professional—typically a Company Secretary (CS), Chartered Accountant (CA), Cost Accountant, or an Advocate—appointed by the Board of Directors to supervise the voting and ensure the process complies with legal norms and the company’s internal governance documents. Legal Basis for Appointment Under the...

                                     How to Check Trademark Status in India                         To check the status of a trademark in India, follow these steps:   Step 1: Visit the Trademark Registry Website Go to the official website of the Indian Trademark Registry: https://ipindia.gov.in/ Step 2: Navigate to the Trademark Status Search Page On the homepage, locate the "Trademarks" section. Click on the "Related Links/Trademark Status" link.   Step 3: Select the Search Type On the redirected page, click on “Trademark Application/Registered Mark” . Select the “National/IRDI Number” option. Step 4: Enter Application Details Enter the Trademark Application Number that you received while filing the application. Solve t...

The Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, 2013 , is a landmark legislation aimed at creating a safe and respectful workplace environment for all employees. Compliance with POSH is not only a legal obligation but also a commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity within organizations. In this blog, we will cover the eligibility criteria for POSH compliance, the consequences of non-compliance, and the importance of training. Eligibility for POSH Compliance Every organization needs to evaluate whether it falls under the purview of the POSH Act. Here are the key points: Who is required to comply? Any organization with 10 or more employees must comply with the POSH Act. This includes: Private companies Public sector organizations Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) Unregistered entities The Act covers all individuals associated with the organization, such as full-time employees, ...

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of economic growth and employment in many economies, including India’s. With the introduction of SME-specific Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), these enterprises now have new pathways for growth, expansion, and visibility. But what exactly is an SME IPO, why should businesses consider it, and what are the key advantages? This article dives into these questions and explores how SME IPOs can serve as a stepping stone to eventually listing on the main board. What is an SME IPO? An SME IPO is a public offering specifically designed for small and medium-sized businesses, allowing them to raise funds through the stock market. Unlike traditional IPOs meant for larger, established companies, SME IPOs cater to enterprises that may not yet meet the regulatory and financial thresholds required for a main board listing. SME IPOs are typically regulated with less stringent requirements than main board IPOs, making them more accessible to eme...

  Secretarial Annual Compliances under the Companies Act, 2013: A Practical Guide for Every Company   The Companies Act, 2013, stands as the foundation for corporate governance in India, setting forth mandatory annual compliances that companies must adhere to. These legal requirements are designed to ensure accountability, financial transparency, and responsible corporate practices. Meeting these annual compliances not only helps businesses avoid penalties but also fosters trust among stakeholders.   In this article, we explore the key annual compliances required under the Companies Act, 2013, for companies of all kinds—public, private, and listed.  1. Annual General Meeting (AGM) The AGM is a cornerstone for corporate governance, providing a platform for the company’s shareholders to review performance, approve financial statements, appoint directors, and make other key decisions. All companies, except One Person Companies (OPCs), must hold an AGM every fi...