Core concepts
- 01Primary rules: literal (grammatical), golden, mischief (Heydon's), purposive.
- 02Aids to construction — internal (preamble, headings) and external (history, dictionaries).
- 03Doctrine of ejusdem generis: general words limited to same class as specific.
- 04Doctrine of noscitur a sociis: meaning known by association.
- 05Strict construction for penal & taxing statutes; liberal for beneficial legislation.
Flowchart
Rules of Interpretation | Literal --> plain meaning Golden --> avoid absurdity Mischief --> Heydon's (4 questions) Purposive --> intent of legislature | Aids: Internal (preamble) + External (history)
Exam-critical pointers
- ⭐Ut res magis valeat quam pereat — construction giving effect preferred over destroying effect.
- ⭐Tax statute: in case of ambiguity, benefit to assessee (Vodafone, but post-2017 SC reversed for exemption notifications).
- ⭐Beneficial construction: workmen / consumer protection / welfare legislation.
- ⭐Marginal notes are not aids unless reflecting clear intent.
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