(1)If the [patentee] [ Substituted by S.O. 1418(E), dated 28.12.2004, for " applicant" (w.e.f. 1.1.2005).] desires to contest the opposition, he shall leave at the appropriate office a reply statement setting out fully the grounds upon which the opposition is contested and evidence, if any, in support of his case within a period of two months from the date of receipt of the copy of the written statement and opponent's evidence, if any, by him under rule 57 and deliver to the opponent a copy thereof.
