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Write A Short Note On Indian Contract Act 1872 and General Principles of Contract
Write A Short Note On Indian Contract Act 1872 and General Principles of Contract
The Indian Contract Act, 1872 is of legislation that governs the law of contracts in India. It was
enacted during the British colonial period The Act has266 sections and is divided into two parts: the
first part primarily deals with the general principles of contract law, while the second part covers
specific types of contracts, such as indemnity, guarantee, and bailment.
Key provisions and principles of the Indian Contract Act, 1872 include:
Offer and Acceptance: The Act lays down the essential elements of a valid contract, which includes a
lawful offer by one party and its lawful acceptance by the other party.
Intention to Create Legal Relations : For valid contract there should be legal obligation Ie intention to
take the other person to court in case of breach of contract.
Capacity to Contract: Parties should have legal capacity to enter contract. Minor, unsound mind
cannot do so.
Free Consent: Contract should be free from misinterpretation, mistake, undue influence etc,
otherwise is void contract.
Legality of Object: Object should be lawful and it should not harm other person or his property or
cause disturbance in society.
Certainty and Possibility of Performance: A person should be able perform the contract and the
terms of contracts should be certain.
Performance and Discharge: Various way contract can be performed and discharged.
Contingent and Quasi-Contracts: The Act deals with contingent contracts, which depend on the
occurrence of a specific event, and quasi-contracts, which are obligations imposed by law to prevent
unjust enrichment.
Define contract as per section 2(h). What are the essentials of a valid contract as per section 10?
In the Indian Contract Act, 1872, Section 2(h) provides the definition of a contract. It states:
Section 10 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, specifies the essentials of a valid contract. For a
contract to be considered legally enforceable, it must satisfy the following conditions:
1. Offer and Acceptance (Consensus ad idem): There must be a lawful offer by one party and its
lawful acceptance by the other party. The terms of the offer and acceptance should be clear and
should match (i.e., both parties must agree to the same thing in the same sense).
2. Intention to Create Legal Relations: Both parties must intend to create legal relations by
entering into the contract. Agreements of a social or domestic nature are generally not
considered contracts.
3. Lawful Consideration: There must be a lawful consideration involved in the contract.
Consideration is what each party gives or promises to give to the other party in exchange for
what they receive. It can be in the form of money, goods, services, or a promise to do something
or refrain from doing something.
4. Capacity of Parties: Both parties entering into the contract must have the legal capacity to do
so. Minors, persons of unsound mind, and those disqualified by law are typically not competent
to contract.
5. Free Consent: The consent of the parties must be free from any form of coercion, undue
influence, fraud, misrepresentation, or mistake. If consent is obtained under such conditions, the
contract may be voidable.
6. Lawful Object: The object (purpose) of the contract must be lawful, and the agreement should
not involve any activity that is illegal or against public policy.
7. Certainty and Possibility of Performance: The terms of the contract should be certain and
capable of being performed. Vague, ambiguous, or uncertain terms may render the contract void.
8. Legal Formalities (if required): In some cases, certain contracts may need to be in writing,
registered, or comply with specific formalities as required by law. Failure to meet these formalities
can make the contract unenforceable.
What are the different types of contract on the basis of enforceability, creation and execution?
Contracts can be classified into various types based on their enforceability, creation,
and execution. Here are the main categories of contracts:
Based on Enforceability:
1. Valid Contract: A valid contract is one that meets all the essential elements required
by law, as defined in the Indian Contract Act, 1872. It is legally enforceable, and the
parties are bound to fulfill their obligations under the contract.
2. Void Contract: A void contract is one that lacks one or more of the essential
elements required by law and is not enforceable from the outset. It is as if the
contract never existed. Common examples include agreements with unlawful objects
or involving parties without legal capacity.
3. Voidable Contract: A voidable contract is one where the contract is initially valid but
can be voided at the option of one of the parties due to factors like fraud,
misrepresentation, coercion, undue influence, or the incapacity of one party.
4. Unenforceable Contract: An unenforceable contract is one that, while valid in its
creation, cannot be enforced due to certain legal restrictions, such as being barred by
the statute of limitations or failing to meet specific formal requirements (e.g., not
being in writing when required).
1. Must Be Real: Consideration must have real value or worth. It should be something
that the law recognizes as having value, which could be money, goods, services, or
even a promise to do something.
2. Must Move From the Promisee: Consideration must be given at the desire or
request of the promisor (the party making the promise). It means that the
consideration must be provided by the promisee (the party to whom the promise is
made) or any other person acting on their behalf. It is essential for the consideration
to move from the promisee or someone on their behalf to the promisor.
3. Must Be Lawful: The consideration must be lawful. It should not involve any illegal
activities or go against public policy. If the act or promise forming the consideration
is illegal or against public policy, the contract may be deemed void.
4. Must Be Possible: Consideration must be something that is capable of being done.
If the act or promise forming the consideration is impossible or unlawful, it will not
be considered valid.
5. Must Be Something the Promisor Is Not Already Bound to Do: Consideration
should involve something that the promisor is not already obligated to do by law or
a pre-existing contract. In other words, it must be something new that the promisor
is offering in exchange for the promise from the promisee.
6. Must Be Given in Exchange for the Promise: Consideration is the price for the
promise, which means it should be given in exchange for the promise made by the
other party. It is the reciprocal nature of consideration that distinguishes it from a gift
or a one-sided act.
7. Adequacy of Consideration: The law generally does not concern itself with the
adequacy of consideration. As long as there is some value involved, the courts will
typically not question whether the consideration was equivalent in value to the
promise made. However, gross inadequacy of consideration might be a factor in
cases of fraud or undue influence.
Based on Creation:
1. Express Contract: An express contract is formed when the terms and conditions of
the agreement are explicitly stated, either verbally or in writing. Both parties are
aware of and agree to these terms.
2. Implied Contract: An implied contract is not explicitly stated but is inferred from the
conduct, actions, or circumstances of the parties involved. These contracts are
typically formed when parties act in a way that suggests an agreement.
3. Quasi-Contract (or Contract by Estoppel): These are not true contracts but are
imposed by law to prevent unjust enrichment. They arise when one party benefits
from the actions or property of another, and the law imposes a duty to compensate
or repay the benefit received.
Based on Execution:
-written contract
-registered under law
-voluntary service
3. completed gift
4. Donation to charity
-donation to charity
-delivery of good from one person to the other for some purpose
6. Contract of guarantee
7. Contract of Agency
In contract law, there are certain circumstances in which a person is considered incompetent to
contract, meaning that they lack the legal capacity to enter into a contract. Contracts entered into
by individuals who are incompetent may be void or voidable, depending on the specific
circumstances. The Indian Contract Act, 1872, outlines the following circumstances in which a
person is considered incompetent to contract:
1. Minority: A minor, defined as a person who has not attained the age of 18 years, is considered
incompetent to contract. Contracts entered into by minors are voidable at the option of the
minor, meaning that the minor can choose to enforce or void the contract upon reaching the age
of majority. However, some contracts with minors, such as contracts for necessaries (goods and
services essential for the minor's support), may be enforceable.
2. Persons of Unsound Mind: Individuals who are of unsound mind or declared legally
incompetent by a court are generally considered incompetent to contract. Contracts entered into
by such individuals are void, as they lack the mental capacity to understand the terms and
consequences of the contract.
3. Persons Disqualified by Law: Some individuals are disqualified by law from entering into certain
contracts. For example, an undischarged insolvent person is disqualified from entering into
certain contracts without the permission of the court. Any such contracts entered into without
court permission may be void.
4. Intoxicated Persons: Contracts entered into by individuals who are intoxicated and, as a result,
lack the capacity to understand the terms and consequences of the contract may be voidable. If
the intoxicated person can demonstrate that they were not in a position to comprehend the
contract's terms due to intoxication, they may have the option to void the contract.
5. Alien Enemies: Contracts with alien enemies during times of war may be considered void. This is
a wartime restriction intended to protect the interests of the nation.
It's important to note that while these individuals are generally considered incompetent to
contract, there may be exceptions and specific circumstances in which they can enter into
contracts or have their contracts upheld. For example, minors can enter into contracts for
necessaries, and persons of unsound mind who have lucid intervals may be capable of
contracting during those periods.
In some cases, individuals who lack capacity may have guardians or legal representatives who can
enter into contracts on their behalf. Additionally, statutes and legal provisions may further specify
the capacity to contract in certain situations.
It's essential for parties entering into contracts to be aware of the legal capacity of the individuals
involved to ensure the validity and enforceability of the contract.
What do you understand by free consent? When is the contract not free?
"Free consent" is a fundamental concept in contract law that refers to the idea that parties
entering into a contract must do so willingly, without any form of coercion, undue influence,
fraud, misrepresentation, or mistake. For a contract to be valid, it is essential that the consent of
the parties is given freely, without any external factors that might compromise the voluntariness
of their agreement.
Here are the key situations in which a contract is not considered to have been entered into with
free consent:
1. Coercion (Section 15): A contract is not considered to have free consent when one party
compels the other to enter into the contract by using physical force, threats, or any other forms
of pressure. Coercion involves the use of force to obtain the other party's consent.
2. Undue Influence (Section 16): When one party has a dominant position over the other and uses
that position to exploit or unduly influence the weaker party into the contract, it is not considered
free consent. This typically occurs when there is a fiduciary relationship or a position of trust
involved.
3. Fraud (Section 17): If one party intentionally conceals information, provides false information, or
misleads the other party regarding a material aspect of the contract, it can lead to a lack of free
consent. The deceived party's consent is not given freely because they were not aware of the true
circumstances.
4. Misrepresentation (Section 18): A contract is not entered into with free consent when one
party makes a false statement or misrepresentation, whether innocently or negligently, that
induces the other party to enter into the contract. This misrepresentation may relate to the terms
or facts of the contract.
5. Mistake (Section 20): When both parties to a contract are under a mistake regarding a
fundamental aspect of the contract, it can result in a lack of free consent. There are two main
types of mistakes: mutual mistake, where both parties are mistaken, and unilateral mistake, where
only one party is mistaken but the other knows about it.
6. Illegality or Immorality: If the object of the contract or the consideration is illegal or against
public policy, the contract is not considered to have been entered into with free consent. Such
contracts are typically void.
In all these cases, the absence of free consent can render a contract voidable at the option of the
aggrieved party. The party whose consent was compromised may choose to void the contract or
seek remedies, such as damages, to redress any harm suffered as a result of the lack of free
consent.
Free consent is a vital element in ensuring the fairness and integrity of contractual agreements, as
it ensures that parties willingly and knowingly enter into contracts without any unfair or coercive
practices.
Can silence be fraudulent? What is the difference between fraud and misinterpretation?
Silence alone is generally not considered fraudulent in contract law, but there are
exceptions and situations where silence can be treated as fraudulent. The general
rule is that there is no duty to disclose information in a contract, and mere silence
does not typically amount to fraud. However, there are specific circumstances where
silence can be fraudulent:
In these cases, the failure to disclose information, when there is a duty to do so, can
be treated as fraudulent.
Fraud: Fraud occurs when one party intentionally makes a false statement, conceals
material information, or engages in deceptive conduct with the intent to deceive and
induce the other party to enter into a contract. Key elements of fraud include:
Fraud can render a contract voidable, and the defrauded party may have the option
to rescind the contract or seek damages.
Misrepresentation can also render a contract voidable, and the innocent party may
have the option to rescind the contract or seek damages. The key distinction is the
intent; fraud requires an intent to deceive, while misrepresentation can occur without
such intent.
Mistake of law and mistake of fact are two distinct concepts in the realm of contract
law, and they have different implications for the validity of a contract. Here's the key
difference between the two:
Mistake of Fact:
Mistake of fact occurs when one or both parties to a contract are mistaken about a
particular fact or set of facts related to the contract's subject matter.
It involves an erroneous belief about the current state of affairs or the facts
surrounding the contract. This could be a mistaken understanding of the identity of
the subject matter, the quality of goods, the timing of events, or other factual details.
Mistake of fact can render a contract void or voidable, depending on the
circumstances. If both parties were mutually mistaken about a fundamental fact, the
contract may be void. If only one party was mistaken, the contract may be voidable
at the option of the mistaken party.
Example: A buyer enters into a contract to purchase what they believe is a rare
painting by a famous artist. However, it later turns out that the painting is a forgery.
If the buyer was genuinely mistaken about the painting's authenticity, they may have
grounds to void the contract due to a mistake of fact.
Mistake of Law:
Mistake of law occurs when one or both parties to a contract are mistaken about the
legal implications or legal consequences of their actions or the terms of the contract.
It involves an erroneous belief about the applicable law, legal principles, or legal
rights. Mistakes of law can pertain to issues like the interpretation of statutes,
regulations, or case law.
Generally, a mistake of law is not a valid defense to the enforcement of a contract.
Ignorance of the law is usually not an excuse, and contracts are typically not void or
voidable solely based on a mistake of law.
Example: A party signs a contract without fully understanding the legal
consequences, thinking they were agreeing to something else. This is generally not a
valid defense, and the contract is likely to be enforced.
In summary, the key distinction between mistake of law and mistake of fact is that a
mistake of fact relates to a misunderstanding of the actual, factual circumstances
surrounding the contract, while a mistake of law pertains to a misunderstanding of
the legal implications and legal consequences of the contract or the applicable legal
principles. Mistakes of fact may provide grounds to void a contract, whereas mistakes
of law generally do not. However, legal systems and specific circumstances may
introduce exceptions to these general principles.
Under what circumstances and cases the consideration and obejects are unlawful?
In contract law, the consideration and objects of a contract must be lawful. Unlawful
consideration or objects can render a contract void or unenforceable. There are specific
circumstances and cases in which the consideration and objects of a contract are considered
unlawful:
1. Forbidden by Law: If the performance of the contract involves an act that is expressly forbidden
by law, the contract is unlawful. This includes contracts that require illegal activities, such as
contracts to commit a crime or engage in an activity that is against the law.
2. Fraudulent: Contracts with fraudulent consideration or objects are unlawful. Fraudulent contracts
involve deceit or misrepresentation to induce a party to enter into the contract. If one party
knowingly misrepresents the terms or purpose of the contract, it can be considered unlawful.
3. Injurious to the Person or Property of Another: Contracts that cause harm to the person or
property of another party are unlawful. For example, a contract to harm or injure someone or
their property is illegal.
4. Opposed to Public Policy: Contracts that are against public policy are considered unlawful. This
includes contracts that go against the interests of the public or that violate established legal and
ethical standards. For example, contracts promoting discrimination or monopolistic practices may
be considered unlawful.
5. Restraint of Trade: Contracts that unreasonably restrain trade or competition are generally
considered unlawful. However, some reasonable restrictions or non-compete clauses may be
enforceable if they meet certain legal criteria.
6. Immoral or Contrary to Good Customs: Contracts that involve immoral or indecent activities or
that violate established customs and norms can be considered unlawful. For example, contracts
for prostitution or the sale of illegal drugs are typically unlawful.
7. Uncertain or Impossible Object: If the object or purpose of a contract is uncertain or impossible
to perform, the contract is considered unlawful. The object must be capable of being identified
and performed.
8. Wagering Contracts: Certain forms of wagering contracts may be considered unlawful,
particularly when they involve gambling activities that are illegal or when they promote gambling
addiction.
9. Violative of Statutory Provisions: Contracts that violate specific statutory provisions or
regulations, such as those related to consumer protection or environmental laws, may be deemed
unlawful.
10. Contracts with Minor Parties: Contracts with minors, who lack full contractual capacity, may be
unlawful or voidable at the option of the minor. However, certain contracts with minors, such as
contracts for necessaries, may still be enforceable.
It's essential for parties entering into contracts to ensure that the consideration and objects of
the contract are lawful, as contracts involving unlawful elements can lead to legal consequences,
including the contract being void or unenforceable. Moreover, engaging in unlawful contracts
can result in legal liabilities and sanctions for the parties involved.
Quasi-contracts are not formed by mutual agreement; instead, they are imposed by
law to prevent unjust enrichment or unfairness. In other words, quasi-contracts
ensure that one party does not benefit unfairly at the expense of another.
Quasi-contracts are not true contracts in the traditional sense because they do not
require mutual consent or agreement between the parties. Instead, they are
equitable remedies imposed by the courts to ensure fairness and prevent unjust
enrichment in situations where there is no express contract but one party has
received a benefit or payment that they should not retain
It's important to understand that the method of discharge may depend on the terms
of the contract, applicable laws, and the specific circumstances of the case.
Contractual relationships can be complex, and the consequences of discharge can
vary, so it is advisable to seek legal advice when dealing with the termination of a
contract
A breach of contract occurs when one party to a contract fails to fulfill their
obligations or duties as specified in the contract. In other words, it's the failure to
perform or adhere to the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. A breach
can take various forms, including failing to deliver goods on time, not providing
services as agreed, delivering substandard quality, or refusing to make a payment
when required. When a breach of contract occurs, the non-breaching party has legal
rights and remedies to address the situation.
The consequences of a breach of contract can vary depending on the severity of the
breach, the terms of the contract, and the specific circumstances. Some common
consequences may include:
1. Damages: The non-breaching party may be entitled to recover damages, which are
monetary compensation meant to put them in the position they would have been in
had the contract been fully performed. There are various types of damages, such as
direct, consequential, and punitive damages, depending on the nature of the breach.
2. Specific Performance: In cases where damages are not an adequate remedy (usually
in unique or rare situations), the court may order the breaching party to fulfill their
contractual obligations, known as specific performance. This remedy is often used in
contracts related to real estate, art, or other unique items.
3. Rescission: Rescission is the cancellation of the contract, returning the parties to
their pre-contractual positions. It is usually available in cases of material breaches or
fraud.
4. Injunction: In some cases, a court may issue an injunction, preventing the breaching
party from taking certain actions or compelling them to take specific actions as
outlined in the contract.
The remedies available for breach of contract aim to restore the non-breaching party
to the position they would have been in if the contract had been properly performed.
Common remedies include:
The specific remedy pursued often depends on the nature of the breach, the terms of
the contract, and the applicable laws. Parties should consult with legal counsel to
determine the most appropriate course of action in the event of a breach of contract.