The "guilty act." It is the physical component of a crime. No act, no crime!

The "guilty mind." It is the mental element, the intention to commit a crime.

A famous maxim meaning "Where there is a right, there is a remedy." The law will provide a way to enforce a right.

The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within India.

No person shall be deprived of their life or personal liberty except according to the procedure established by law.

Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic. Remember the order!

Libel is written defamation (permanent). Slander is spoken defamation (transient). Both harm reputation!

Holding one person responsible for the actions of another, like an employer for an employee's torts.

Offer + Acceptance + Consideration + Intention to create legal relations = A valid contract.

A void contract is invalid from the start. A voidable contract is valid until one party chooses to cancel it.

Theft is taking property without consent. Extortion is getting property by threatening harm.

A powerful writ that means "You may have the body." It protects against unlawful detention.

Parliament can amend the Constitution, but it cannot alter its "basic structure." A landmark ruling from Kesavananda Bharati case.

The famous "snail in the bottle" case that established the modern concept of negligence and the "neighbour principle".

A maxim meaning "the thing speaks for itself." Used in torts when negligence is obvious from the facts.

A Latin phrase meaning "something for something." It's the foundation of consideration in a contract.

A presumption in criminal law that a child under a certain age is incapable of having criminal intent.

India is "quasi-federal," a union of states with a strong central government, combining federal and unitary features.

Known as the "Mini-Constitution" for its vast changes, it added "Socialist," "Secular," and "Integrity" to the Preamble.

The President can pardon a death sentence (Article 72), but a Governor cannot (Article 161).

You cannot be tried for the same crime twice. Protected under Article 20(2) of the Constitution.

Declared a Fundamental Right under Article 21 by the Supreme Court in the Puttaswamy case.

Allows any public-spirited citizen to file a lawsuit on behalf of a group that cannot do so themselves.

The "People's Court." A form of alternative dispute resolution where disputes are settled by compromise.

The President (Art. 123) and Governor (Art. 213) can issue laws when Parliament/Legislature is not in session.

A key principle of natural justice: "No one should be a judge in their own cause." Rule against bias!

Another principle of natural justice: "Let the other side be heard." Right to a fair hearing.

Temporarily transferring possession of goods to another person for a specific purpose (e.g., giving a watch for repair).

A type of bailment where goods are delivered as security for a loan. Think "pawn shop".

A contract that depends on the happening or non-happening of a future event (e.g., an insurance contract).

The Supreme Court struck down Section 497 of the IPC, decriminalizing adultery. It remains a ground for divorce.

These are goals and guidelines for the state, but unlike Fundamental Rights, they are not enforceable in court.

Justice M. Fathima Beevi was the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court of India in 1989.

Called by the President (Art. 108) to resolve a deadlock on a bill between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha. The Speaker decides if a bill is a Money Bill or not.

Subjects on which both the Union and State governments can make laws (e.g., education, forests).

Assault is the threat of force. Battery is the actual use of force.

Unlawful interference with a person's use or enjoyment of their land.

A strict legal standard for hazardous activities. No exceptions if harm occurs!

The highest law officer in the country, appointed by the President. Has the right to speak in Parliament.

The time immediately following the Question Hour. An Indian parliamentary innovation.

A DPSP under Article 44, aiming for one law for all citizens in personal matters like marriage and divorce.

A constitutional right under Article 326. The voting age was lowered from 21 to 18 by the 61st Amendment.

Primary sources include legislation, precedents (judgments), and customs.

Bail granted to a person in anticipation of an arrest. A pre-arrest legal remedy.

Information recorded by the police about a cognizable offence. It sets the criminal law process in motion.

A legal doctrine meaning "a matter decided." Prevents the same case from being tried again.

A legal document declaring a person's wishes regarding the disposal of their property after death.

A contract to save a party from loss caused by the conduct of the promisor or any other person.

A contract to perform the promise or discharge the liability of a third person in case of their default.

Article 370 granted special status to J&K. It was abrogated in August 2019 by a presidential order, making all laws applicable to J&K.

An official appointed to investigate complaints against an organization or public authority. Lokpal is India's ombudsman.

Bringing hatred or contempt towards the government. Controversial law often debated for its colonial origins.

Implemented July 1, 2017. Merged 17+ indirect taxes into one. Constitutional status via 101st Amendment.

Hacking, identity theft, phishing are cyber crimes under IT Act, 2000. Section 66 punishes hacking with up to 3 years jail.

Copyright lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 60 years. Protects original works like books, music, and art.

Replaced Planning Commission in 2015. NITI = National Institution for Transforming India. PM is the Chairperson.

Let the buyer beware! Principle under Sale of Goods Act placing responsibility on buyers to examine before purchase.

Anyone under 18 is a juvenile. Special courts (JJB) handle cases. Focus on rehabilitation, not punishment.

Protects children from sexual offences. Stringent punishment, gender-neutral, mandatory reporting, special courts.

Dishonor of cheque is a criminal offence! Punishment: up to 2 years jail or fine up to twice the cheque amount.

Puttaswamy case (2017): Right to privacy is a Fundamental Right under Article 21. Landmark 9-judge bench ruling!

Comptroller & Auditor General audits all govt accounts. Appointed by President. Term: 6 years or 65 years age.

If constitutional machinery fails in a state, President can impose direct rule. State assembly suspended.

Court orders a party to perform their contract obligations. Granted when damages aren't enough!

Time limit to file a case! Generally 3 years for money recovery, 12 years for property possession.

Defamation: Harming reputation by words (slander) or writing (libel). Punishment: up to 2 years imprisonment.

If part of a law is unconstitutional, only that part is struck down, not the entire law (if separable).

Based on random choice, not reason. Arbitrary state action violates Article 14 (Right to Equality).

Supreme Court (Art 32) and High Courts (Art 226) can issue 5 types of writs to protect rights.

Deals only with taxation, govt borrowing, or Consolidated Fund. Can only originate in Lok Sabha!

A motion to adjourn House to discuss urgent public importance. Shows lack of confidence if admitted!

First hour of Parliament sitting. MPs ask questions to ministers. Starred questions get oral answers.

Central Bureau of Investigation - India's premier investigating agency. Set up in 1963.

Bail before arrest! Section 438 CrPC allows it if you fear arrest. A pre-arrest safeguard.

Police can arrest WITHOUT a warrant. Serious crimes like murder, rape, theft over ₹50 are cognizable.

The first step in criminal law! Police register FIR for cognizable offences. Starts the investigation.

Drafted our Constitution. First met on Dec 9, 1946. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee.

Both Union and State can make laws on 52 subjects like education, forests, marriage. But Union law prevails!

Tenth Schedule. If an MP/MLA defects, they can be disqualified. Strengthens party discipline!

Judges appoint judges! SC collegium (CJI + 4 senior judges) recommends judicial appointments to President.

Public Interest Litigation - anyone can file for public cause. No need to be personally affected! Justice for all.

Bring dangerous stuff on your land at your own risk! If it escapes and causes harm, you're liable.

Act of God! Unforeseeable events (earthquake, war) that prevent contract performance. Excuse from liability.

File your case on time! Generally 3 years for most civil suits. Time starts from when right to sue arises.

Protects inventions for 20 years. Must be novel, non-obvious, and useful. No patents for math methods!

Protects brand identity - logos, names, symbols. Can be renewed indefinitely. ® means registered!

Geographical Indication identifies products from specific regions. E.g., Darjeeling Tea, Basmati Rice.

Daughters are now equal coparceners! Same rights as sons in ancestral property. A historic change!

Property held in one name but paid for by another. Illegal! 2016 law allows confiscation + 7 years jail.

Dispute resolution outside courts. Parties appoint arbitrators. Award is binding like a court decree.

A neutral mediator helps parties reach settlement. Non-binding process. Saves time and money!

Once criminalized homosexuality. Partly struck down in Navtej Johar case (2018). Historic victory for LGBTQ+ rights!

Instant triple talaq declared unconstitutional in 2017. Criminalized in 2019. Protection for Muslim women.

Protects women from domestic abuse. Includes physical, mental, sexual, economic violence. Get protection orders!

Dowry is illegal! Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961. Taking or giving dowry = up to 5 years jail + fine.

RTI Act, 2005 gives citizens right to seek information from govt. Reply within 30 days. Transparency tool!

National Human Rights Commission protects human rights. Can recommend but not enforce. Set up in 1993.

Article 48A (DPSP) and 51A(g) (Duty) mandate environmental protection. EPA 1986 is umbrella legislation.

National Green Tribunal handles environmental cases. Fast-track justice for environmental issues. Established 2010.

Right to safety, information, choice, be heard, redress, and consumer education. Consumer Protection Act 2019.

Regulates online marketplaces. No mis-selling, clear return policy, protect consumer data. Fair play online!

India's privacy law! Regulates personal data processing. Rights to access, correct, erase data. Heavy penalties!

SC upheld Aadhaar (2018) but with safeguards. Mandatory only for PAN, welfare schemes, and filing IT returns.

Anonymous political funding. Struck down by SC in 2024 as violating right to information!

None of the Above option in elections since 2013. Shows disapproval but doesn't affect results.

Electronic Voting Machines used since 2000. VVPAT (paper trail) added for transparency.

Election Commission's guidelines for fair elections. Parties must follow during campaign period.

Armed forces and certain govt employees can vote via proxy if posted away. Ensures their participation!

Voting by post for those on election duty, seniors 85+, PwD, COVID patients. Vote from home!

Three organs: Legislature makes law, Executive implements law, Judiciary interprets law. Checks & balances!

No one is above the law. Equality before law applies to PM, President & common citizen equally!

Kesavananda Bharati case 1973: Parliament cannot amend Constitution's basic structure. Golden triangle protected!

Courts can strike down laws violating Constitution. Guardian of Fundamental Rights!

In UK, Parliament is supreme. In India, Constitution is supreme. Key difference!

Deals with taxation & spending. Introduced only in Lok Sabha. Speaker's certificate is final!

State emergency when constitutional machinery fails. Max 3 years. SR Bommai case limits its misuse!

President can make laws when Parliament not in session. Temporary - must be approved within 6 weeks!

Subjects not in any list? Parliament can legislate on them. Unlike US where states have residuary power!

Three types: Simple majority, special majority, and special majority + state ratification!

Comptroller & Auditor General audits government accounts. "Guardian of public purse"!

Highest law officer of India. Appointed by President. Can speak in Parliament but cannot vote!

Highest law officer of State. Holds office during Governor's pleasure. State-level AG!

Pre-constitutional law inconsistent with FR is not void but eclipsed. Revives if FR amended!

Fundamental Rights cannot be waived! Basheshar Nath case: FRs are matters of public policy!

Articles 14, 19, 21 are interconnected. Maneka Gandhi case expanded their scope dramatically!

State's power to acquire private property for public purpose. Must provide compensation (Art 300A)!

State's inherent power to regulate for public health, safety & morals. Basis for reasonable restrictions!

State as parent of the nation. Courts protect interests of minors & persons of unsound mind!

Standing to sue. PIL relaxed this - any public-spirited citizen can approach court for public cause!

Civil contempt: disobedience. Criminal contempt: scandalizing courts. Truth is now a defense (2006)!

Matters pending in court cannot be discussed in Parliament. Protects judicial independence!

Controversial practice of submitting evidence in sealed covers to courts. Criticized for lack of transparency!

Last remedy after review petition dismissed. Must show grave miscarriage of justice (Rupa Hurra case)!

Review: same court re-examines its order. Appeal: higher court examines lower court's order!

The principle on which case is decided. Binding on future cases. Heart of the judgment!

Remarks "said by the way". Not binding but persuasive. Judge's observations beyond the case!

Let the decision stand. Doctrine of precedent - similar cases decided similarly for certainty!

Decision made "through lack of care". Ignores binding authority - can be overruled!

"Friend of the court". Expert assists court in complex matters. Not a party to the case!

Precautionary application. "Hear me before passing any ex-parte order against me!"

Temporary order during pendency of case. Doesn't decide rights finally. e.g., interim injunction!

Decree: conclusively determines rights. Order: doesn't conclusively determine. Both are appealable!

Matter already judged. Same parties, same issue = can't relitigate. Prevents endless litigation!

Could have raised but didn't? Barred from raising later. Should have been pleaded in earlier suit!

Time limit to file case. Civil suits: 3 years usually. Criminal: varies. Consumer: 2 years. Know your limits!

Occupying another's land openly for 12 years? You can claim ownership! Time beats title!

Order passed when one party is absent. Can be set aside if good cause shown for absence!

Chargesheet not filed in time? Accused gets bail as right. 60/90 days depending on offense!

Bail before arrest. Protection when apprehending arrest. Discretionary - no absolute right!

FIR can be filed at ANY police station. Later transferred to jurisdictional station. No excuse to refuse!

For offenses up to 7 years, police must issue notice before arrest. Protects against arbitrary arrest!

11 guidelines for arrest: Memo of arrest, medical examination, inform family, legal aid. Rights of arrested!

Right to remain silent, right to lawyer, arrest memo - Must be informed at time of arrest!

Confession to police is NOT admissible (Sec 25-26). Only judicial confession before magistrate counts!

Statement as to cause of death. Admissible even without oath. Recorded by magistrate preferably!

TIP: Witness identifies suspect among similar-looking people. Done before magistrate. Corroborative evidence!

Cruelty by husband or relatives. Cognizable, non-bailable. Rajesh Sharma guidelines against misuse!

Death within 7 years of marriage + cruelty for dowry = presumption of dowry death. 7 years minimum!

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences. Child = below 18. Burden on accused to prove innocence!

Person below 18 is juvenile. Special treatment. Can be tried as adult for heinous crimes if 16-18!

Information is power! 30 days to respond. ₹10 application fee. Exceptions: national security, cabinet papers!

Expose corruption without fear. Victimization prohibited. Identity kept confidential. Public Interest Disclosure!

Civil: damages. Criminal (Sec 499 IPC): 2 years jail. Truth is defense if in public interest!

SC put Section 124A on hold in 2022. "Colonial relic". Under review by government. Major development!

Consent-based data processing. Data fiduciary duties. Penalties up to ₹250 crore. India's privacy law!

Struck down in Shreya Singhal case 2015. Vague terms like "annoying" violated free speech. Landmark!

Hacking (66), Data theft (43), Identity theft (66C), Cyber stalking (354D). Know your sections!

Intermediaries not liable for third-party content IF they follow due diligence. Platforms protected conditionally!

New features: E-commerce covered, Product liability, Central Authority. Consumer is king with rights!

Manufacturer liable for defective products. No need to prove negligence. Strict liability on producers!

False advertising, misleading claims, bait-and-switch. Consumers can claim compensation!

District: up to ₹1 cr, State: ₹1-10 cr, National: above ₹10 cr. Choose right forum!

Anti-trust law. Prevents monopolies, cartels, abuse of dominance. CCI is the watchdog!

Agreement between competitors to fix prices or share market. Leniency for first informant!

Market leader cannot impose unfair conditions, predatory pricing, or deny market access. Fair play!

Large mergers need CCI approval. Threshold based on assets/turnover. Prevents anti-competitive combinations!

Private dispute resolution. Fast, confidential, final. UNCITRAL model. Alternative to courts!

Seat determines governing law. Venue is just physical location. Seat = legal home of arbitration!

Challenge arbitral award within 3 months. Limited grounds: public policy, no proper notice, incapacity!

New law! Pre-litigation mediation mandatory for some cases. Settlement = decree of civil court!

People's court. No court fee. Compromise-based settlement. Award is final - no appeal!

Free legal aid to poor, SC/ST, women, children. NALSA at national level. Access to justice for all!

New invention + non-obvious + industrial application = patent. 20 years from filing date. Innovate!

Original work gets automatic protection. Life of author + 60 years. No registration needed!

Distinctive mark for goods/services. 10 years, renewable indefinitely. ® vs ™ - know the difference!

Confidential business info. No registration. Protected by contract/NDA. Coca-Cola formula is classic example!

Darjeeling Tea, Champagne, Basmati Rice. Place of origin matters. 10 years protection, renewable!

Use copyrighted work for research, criticism, review. No permission needed. Four-factor test!

Government can allow use of patent without owner's consent. Public health emergencies. Access to medicine!

Environmental disputes resolved here. Technical expertise + judicial powers. Time-bound disposal!

You pollute, you pay! Cost of remediation on polluter. Absolute liability for hazardous industries!

Better safe than sorry! Lack of scientific certainty no excuse to delay environmental protection!

Natural resources held in trust for public. State is trustee. MC Mehta cases applied this!

Major projects need environmental clearance. Study impact before approval. 2020 draft was controversial!

No diversion of forest land without Central approval. Compensatory afforestation required. Green cover protected!

Schedules I-VI classify animals. Schedule I: highest protection. Tiger, Elephant protected. Poaching = serious crime!

Pollution Control Boards enforce. Consent to establish & operate needed. Penalties for violation!

Company disputes, mergers, winding up, oppression cases. Appeals to NCLAT. Corporate courts!

Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code. Time-bound resolution: 180+90 days. Creditors recover, companies revive!

Real Estate Regulation Act. Register project before selling. Protect homebuyers from delays & fraud!

Banks can seize assets of defaulters without court. Securitization law. Recovery of bad loans!

FERA: criminal offense for forex violation. FEMA: civil offense, penalties. Liberalization changed approach!

Securities market regulator. Protects investors, regulates exchanges. Insider trading = punishable!

Central bank. Monetary policy, currency issue, bank regulation. Lender of last resort!

One nation, one tax. Replaced 17 taxes. CGST, SGST, IGST. Destination-based consumption tax!

Direct: income tax - cannot shift burden. Indirect: GST - shifted to consumer. Know the difference!

Taxing past transactions. Vodafone & Cairn cases. India withdrew retrospective demands in 2021!

DTAA treaties prevent taxing same income twice. India has 90+ DTAAs. Cross-border taxation simplified!

4 new codes replacing 29 old laws. Wages, Social Security, OSH, Industrial Relations. Consolidation!

Central + State both can fix. Varies by skill level & region. Floor wage concept introduced!

26 weeks paid leave (first 2 children). 12 weeks for third. Crèche facility mandatory. Support mothers!

Vishaka Guidelines + POSH Act 2013. ICC mandatory in organizations with 10+ employees!

Dispute between employer & workers. Conciliation → Labour Court → Industrial Tribunal. Hierarchy of resolution!

Strike: workers stop work. Lockout: employer closes factory. Both regulated under Industrial Disputes Act!

Constitutional body (Art 324). CEC + 2 ECs. Conducts free & fair elections. Model code enforcer!

10th Schedule. Switch party = lose seat. Disqualification by Speaker. Strengthens party system!

None Of The Above option. Reject all candidates. Symbolic dissent. Highest votes? Re-election not mandated!

Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail. Printed slip confirms your vote. Transparency in EVMs!

Governs elections. Corrupt practices, election petitions, disqualifications. RPA 1950 & 1951 duo!