Syllabus Contract
Syllabus Contract
COURSE OUTLINE
SEMESTER II
BA.LLB (Hons.)
LAW of Contract-I
COURSE TEACHER
Dr. Jayanta Dhar
(Assistant Professor of Law)
Law of Contract is the foundational basis of the commercial law and a major portion of civil laws
and hence it is critically significant for the law students to have a complete grip over the fundamental
and basics of the law of contract. There are indeed lots of minute and critical aspects of contract
laws that are to be introduced to the law students by a thorough and mixed blend of theoretical as
well as application-based learning method. In pursuance of the same the current course is modulated
to cater the critical understanding of the law students. The course, thus, offers an in-depth
exploration of the foundational principles and intricacies of contract law within the Indian legal
landscape. Delving into the historical evolution and contemporary significance of the Indian
Contract Act of 1872, this course equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the
fundamental concepts underpinning contractual relationships. From dissecting the essential
elements of contract formation, such as offer, acceptance, consideration, and free consent, to
examining the rights, obligations, and remedies available to parties in case of breach, students gain
insight into the nuances of contractual agreements. Through a blend of theoretical study, case
analyses, and practical applications, participants not only grasp the theoretical underpinnings of
Indian contract law but also develop the analytical skills necessary to navigate real-world
contractual scenarios effectively. Moreover, the course delves into special categories of contracts,
standard format contract and electronic contracts, while also addressing contemporary issues and
developments shaping contractual jurisprudence in India. By the conclusion of this course, students
emerge equipped with the knowledge and proficiency to engage with and apply Indian contract law
principles in legal practice and academic discourse.
The primary objective of course Law of Contract- I is to teach the students both theoretically and
pragmatically with the core concepts of Contract, laws and legal facets relating to elements of
contract, its application and limitations, discharge of contract and damages etc. A detailed
description of the objectives are referred as:
1. Remembering: At this level, students will be able to recall and recognize the foundational
concepts, principles, and terminology of contract law. They will memorize key definitions such as
offer, acceptance, consideration, and capacity, as well as recall landmark cases that have shaped
contract law doctrines.
2. Understanding: Moving beyond mere memorization, students will demonstrate a deeper
comprehension of contract law principles. They will be able to explain the significance of legal
elements within contracts, analyze contractual language, and interpret judicial decisions.
Understanding will extend to recognizing the nuances of contractual relationships in various
contexts, such as commercial transactions, employment agreements, and consumer contracts.
3. Applying: At the application level, students will utilize their understanding of contract law to
solve practical problems and scenarios. They will draft contractual clauses, negotiate agreements,
and assess the enforceability of contracts. By applying legal principles to real-world situations,
Course designed by © Dr. Jayanta Dhar 2
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BA, LL. B (Hons.) SEMESTER: II, BATCH-2023-28
COURSE OUTLINE OF Law of Contract-I
students will develop the skills necessary for legal practice, including contract drafting, negotiation,
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and dispute resolution.
4. Analyzing: This level involves breaking down complex contractual scenarios into their
constituent parts for deeper examination. Students will analyze case law, statutes, and contractual
provisions to identify legal issues, rights, and obligations. Through case studies and legal research,
they will dissect contractual disputes, identify potential legal remedies, and evaluate the strengths
and weaknesses of legal arguments.
5. Evaluating: At the evaluation stage, students will critically assess the effectiveness, fairness, and
ethical implications of contractual arrangements. They will weigh conflicting interests, assess the
impact of contractual provisions on various stakeholders, and consider alternative approaches to
resolving disputes. Through debates, simulations, and peer reviews, students will evaluate the
ethical dimensions of contract law and develop the ability to make informed judgments about legal
issues.
6. Creating: Finally, at the highest level of Bloom's Taxonomy, students will synthesize their
knowledge and skills to create innovative solutions to complex contractual problems. They will
draft comprehensive contracts, develop alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and propose
legal reforms to address emerging issues in contract law. By engaging in creative problem-solving,
students will demonstrate mastery of contract law concepts and readiness for legal practice.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Upon successful completion of the course titled "Law of Contract - I" students will be able to:
1. Understand the fundamental principles and elements of contract law, including offer, acceptance,
consideration, and contractual capacity.
2. Analyze and interpret case law, statutes, and contractual provisions to identify legal issues and
rights within contractual relationships.
3. Apply contract law principles to solve practical problems, draft contracts, and assess the
enforceability of contractual provisions.
4. Evaluate the fairness, effectiveness, and ethical implications of contractual arrangements in
various contexts, including commercial transactions and consumer contracts.
5. Develop critical thinking skills and legal reasoning abilities necessary for navigating complex
contractual scenarios and resolving disputes.
6. Demonstrate proficiency in contract drafting, negotiation, and alternative dispute resolution
mechanisms through practical exercises and simulations.
7. Synthesize knowledge of contract law concepts to propose innovative solutions and legal reforms
addressing contemporary issues in contract law.
TEACHING PEDAGODY
o Lectures (Synchronous)
o Discussions
o Random Questioning
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COURSE OUTLINE OF Law of Contract-I
o Case Analysis
o Viva Voce 2023-24
o Presentations
o Random Examples
o Reflections
1. BEFORE CLASS
2. DURING CLASS
• Engagement and Availability: Throughout the class, the instructor maintains a high level
of attentiveness, availability, and active participation. They are open to discussions and
encourage questions from students.
• Information Mastery: The instructor adeptly locates, organizes, analyzes, synthesizes,
and evaluates information. This includes the identification of both the strengths and
weaknesses in specific legal systems, as well as exploring alternative arguments to address
controversies in the field.
• Effective Communication: The instructor exemplifies effective communication skills,
both orally and in writing, employing the English language as well as visual media to
convey concepts and ideas effectively.
3. AFTER CLASS
READINGS
The students are expected to read, understand and keep up with the reading assignments
throughout the semester. The readings at this level require in-depth reading and studying. The
required materials cover the basic material in the form of essential readings outlined in each
module. However, students may find themselves needing additional information and therefore,
we have identified recommended reference materials also. Students are expected to read
essential material prior to class.
EVALUATION SYSTEM
The examination system of the University promotes continuous review and ensures
transparent evaluation methods. To get good grades, you will need to do well over a period
of time and not once or twice. In order to promote transparencyand objectivity, detailed
evaluation report of project assignments and answer scripts will be given to students for
their perusal. The assessment strategy for this paper is designed to assess knowledge, skills
and understanding in a specialist area of legal theory and to allow students to develop
comparative law methodologies.
5 Total 100
Creating project assignments for Law of Contract – I course that covers such a wide range of topics
is crucial for deepening understanding and applying knowledge. Hence students are given seven
moot propositions reflecting the modules of the course. Students will be fragmented into groups
and allocated propositions and have to perform through mooting. Marks allocated for the assessment
shall be distributed on the contents of the memorial, primarily adequate reference to the legal
provisions and precedents or authorities, and arguments.
End semester examination (45 marks): At the end of the semester student will appear(Subject
to the rules of attendance) in End-Term exam for two and half hours and of 45 marks. Students
are strongly advised to read the literature and leading cases from the report which would enable
them to solve the legal problems in the exams as mostof the questions will be problem based.
Students are required to exhibit application and interpretation of knowledge; evaluation of legal
systems and laws.
ACADEMIC HONESTY
Plagiarism and Cheating are strictly prohibited. Plagiarism is defined as taking or using the
thoughts, writings, or inventions of another without acknowledging him/her. It also means using
direct quotations without quotation marks, as well as using the ideas of another without proper
credit. Ask your instructor when in doubt. Cheating is defined as any intent to deceive the
instructor in his or her effort to grade fairly. Anything that can possibly affect the fairness of
grading is cheating, which I interpret to include any collaborative, mischievous, or disruptive
behavior. In this course, pay special attention to gleaning information off theInternet, and do NOT
pass it off as your own, or without proper citation. Learn to paraphrase ideas in your own words.
Do not purchase, borrow, or revise another student's work. Do not "double dip" an assignment
you did in another class to turn it in for this one. Students indulging in such activities shall be
punished according to university rules.
MODULE I: INTRODUCTION
Understanding contractual obligations requires delving into various facets of contract law,
encompassing its historical evolution and fundamental nature. Contract formation is a pivotal
aspect, necessitating an exploration of its essentials, including the intention to create a legal
relationship and enforceability. This involves a thorough examination of the offer and acceptance
process, encompassing different types and rules, alongside the crucial elements of communication
and revocation. Additionally, considerations of capacity to contract, encompassing factors such as
age, soundness of mind, and legal disqualification, further elucidate the complexities of contractual
engagements. The significance of consent to contract cannot be overstated, wherein free and valid
consent is pivotal, while factors such as coercion, undue influence, fraud, misrepresentation, and
mistake can vitiate a contract. Finally, the role of consideration in contract formation, its lawfulness,
exceptions, and the concept of privity of consideration, underscores the multifaceted nature of
contractual arrangements.
Essential Readings:
1. Anirudh Wadhwa, Mulla The Indian Contract Act, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
2. Chitra Narayan R Yashod Vardhan, Pollock and Mulla’s The Indian Contract & Specific Relief
Acts, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
3. J. Beatson, A. Burrows, J. Cartwrights, Anson’s Law of Contract, 29 th Edition, Oxford
Publication
4. Professor Hugh Beale, Chitty on Contracts, 33rd Edition, Sweet and Maxwell
5. Rajesh Kapoor, Avatar Singh’s Law of Contract and Specific Relief, 13 th Edition, Eastern Book
Company
6. Dr. R. K. Bangia’s Contract – I, 17th Edition, Allahabad Law Agency,
7. P. C Markanda’s The Law of Contract, Lexis Nexis
1. Anirudh Wadhwa, Mulla The Indian Contract Act, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
2. Chitra Narayan R Yashod Vardhan, Pollock and Mulla’s The Indian Contract & Specific Relief
Acts, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
3. J. Beatson, A. Burrows, J. Cartwrights, Anson’s Law of Contract, 29 th Edition, Oxford
Publication
4. Professor Hugh Beale, Chitty on Contracts, 33rd Edition, Sweet and Maxwell
5. Rajesh Kapoor, Avatar Singh’s Law of Contract and Specific Relief, 13 th Edition, Eastern Book
Company
6. Dr. R. K. Bangia’s Contract – I, 17th Edition, Allahabad Law Agency,
7. P. C Markanda’s The Law of Contract, Lexis Nexis
1. Understand the distinctions between void and voidable contracts, as well as agreements rendered
unlawful or uncertain, thereby gaining insight into the essential elements determining contract
validity.
2. Identify and analyze the implications of specific void agreements, such as those restraining
marriage, trade, or legal proceedings, enhancing proficiency in recognizing and navigating
prohibited contractual arrangements.
3. Gain proficiency in discerning the characteristics and ramifications of wagering agreements and
illegal contracts, including their impact on related collateral agreements, fostering a nuanced
understanding of contractual legality.
4. Develop the ability to evaluate contractual clauses and terms for certainty and legality, enabling
effective drafting and negotiation practices in real-world contractual engagements.
5. Acquire a comprehensive understanding of Indian contract law principles and their practical
applications through the examination of relevant cases and materials, facilitating the application of
legal knowledge in diverse contractual scenarios.
A. E-Contracts:
i. Contract by Click Wrap,
ii. Browse Wrap Contract,
iv. Shrink Wrap contract and,
v. Email Contracts
B. Jurisdictional Issues
C. UNCITRAL Model Law on E-Commerce 1996
D. Informational and Technology Act, 2000
E. Standard Form Contract and relevant guidelines
Essential Readings:
Essential Readings:
1. Anirudh Wadhwa, Mulla The Indian Contract Act, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
2. Chitra Narayan R Yashod Vardhan, Pollock and Mulla’s The Indian Contract & Specific Relief
Acts, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
3. J. Beatson, A. Burrows, J. Cartwrights, Anson’s Law of Contract, 29 th Edition, Oxford
Publication
4. Professor Hugh Beale, Chitty on Contracts, 33rd Edition, Sweet and Maxwell
5. Rajesh Kapoor, Avatar Singh’s Law of Contract and Specific Relief, 13 th Edition, Eastern Book
Company
6. Dr. R. K. Bangia’s Contract – I, 17th Edition, Allahabad Law Agency,
7. P. C Markanda’s The Law of Contract, Lexis Nexis
1. Gain a comprehensive understanding of contingent contracts, including their concept, scope, and
applicability in various contractual scenarios.
2. Develop proficiency in navigating the enforcement mechanisms specific to contingent contracts,
discerning the legal frameworks and remedies available for contingent obligations.
3. Acquire specialized knowledge concerning the application of contingent contract principles to
options and derivatives, enabling critical analysis and strategic decision-making in financial
contexts.
4. Enhance problem-solving skills by evaluating real-world scenarios involving contingent
contracts, thereby honing the ability to identify and address legal issues and uncertainties.
Essential Readings:
1. Anirudh Wadhwa, Mulla The Indian Contract Act, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
2. Chitra Narayan R Yashod Vardhan, Pollock and Mulla’s The Indian Contract & Specific Relief
Acts, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
3. J. Beatson, A. Burrows, J. Cartwrights, Anson’s Law of Contract, 29 th Edition, Oxford
Publication
4. Professor Hugh Beale, Chitty on Contracts, 33rd Edition, Sweet and Maxwell
5. Rajesh Kapoor, Avatar Singh’s Law of Contract and Specific Relief, 13 th Edition, Eastern Book
Company
6. Dr. R. K. Bangia’s Contract – I, 17th Edition, Allahabad Law Agency,
7. P. C Markanda’s The Law of Contract, Lexis Nexis
1. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies surrounding the offer of performance and
the essentials required for a valid tender, facilitating effective negotiation and execution of
contractual obligations.
2. Develop proficiency in navigating the rules pertaining to joint promisors and promises, enabling
the assessment of legal liabilities and responsibilities in collaborative contractual arrangements.
3. Acquire specialized knowledge concerning the time and place of performance, along with the
effects of failure and the spectrum of available remedies, enhancing strategic decision-making in
contractual engagements.
4. Cultivate a nuanced understanding of the various mechanisms of discharge, including
performance, agreement, novation, alteration, and rescission, fostering adeptness in managing and
modifying contractual obligations.
5. Enhance critical thinking skills by exploring discharge by impossibility and breach,
Course designed by © Dr. Jayanta Dhar 16
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BA, LL. B (Hons.) SEMESTER: II, BATCH-2023-28
COURSE OUTLINE OF Law of Contract-I
comprehending the doctrine of frustration, its applicability, limitations, and exceptions, and
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discerning the legal implications of actual and anticipatory breaches in contractual relationships.
Navigating the intricate realm of legal obligations unfolds a tapestry woven with diverse principles
governing financial interactions and societal responsibilities. From the foundational concept of
quasi-contracts, exemplified by the claim for necessaries, to the complex web of reimbursement
and obligations arising from non-gratuitous acts, this exploration traverses multifaceted legal
terrain. Delving further, it scrutinizes the responsibilities borne by finders of goods and dissects the
nuances of liability stemming from mistaken or coerced payments. Each facet sheds light on the
interplay between rights and duties, providing insights into the reciprocal obligations inherent in
various transactions. Thus, this comprehensive analysis elucidates the rights, duties, and liabilities
entwined within the fabric of legal relationships, offering a nuanced understanding of societal and
financial interactions.
Essential Readings:
1. Anirudh Wadhwa, Mulla The Indian Contract Act, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
2. Chitra Narayan R Yashod Vardhan, Pollock and Mulla’s The Indian Contract & Specific Relief
Acts, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
3. J. Beatson, A. Burrows, J. Cartwrights, Anson’s Law of Contract, 29 th Edition, Oxford
Publication
4. Professor Hugh Beale, Chitty on Contracts, 33rd Edition, Sweet and Maxwell
5. Rajesh Kapoor, Avatar Singh’s Law of Contract and Specific Relief, 13 th Edition, Eastern Book
Company
6. Dr. R. K. Bangia’s Contract – I, 17th Edition, Allahabad Law Agency,
7. P. C Markanda’s The Law of Contract, Lexis Nexis
1. Develop a thorough understanding of quasi-contracts and the legal principles governing claims
for necessaries, enhancing proficiency in identifying and resolving obligations arising from implied
contractual relationships.
Course designed by © Dr. Jayanta Dhar 17
NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY, TRIPURA
BA, LL. B (Hons.) SEMESTER: II, BATCH-2023-28
COURSE OUTLINE OF Law of Contract-I
2. Acquire specialized knowledge concerning reimbursement in Indian law, including the principles
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and practices governing the repayment of money paid due to another, facilitating informed decision-
making in financial transactions.
3. Gain insight into the legal obligations of individuals benefitting from non-gratuitous acts,
fostering the ability to analyze and address reciprocal duties arising from such circumstances.
4. Enhance critical thinking skills by exploring the responsibilities of finders of goods, discerning
the legal implications and ethical considerations surrounding the discovery and disposition of lost
property.
5. Cultivate a nuanced understanding of liability arising from mistaken or coerced payments,
enabling the identification and mitigation of legal risks associated with financial transactions
conducted under duress or error.
Exploring the vast landscape of contractual remedies unveils a tapestry woven with intricate legal
principles and equitable doctrines. From the foundational concept of damages in the law of contract,
encompassing various types, measures, and the doctrine of remoteness exemplified by the rule of
Hadley vs. Baxendale, to the nuanced considerations of liquidated damages, this discourse navigates
through the spectrum of contractual redress mechanisms. Delving further, it scrutinizes the delicate
balance struck by the doctrine of penalty and forfeiture, illuminating the distinctions between
enforceable contractual provisions and penalties. Moreover, the exploration extends to equitable
remedies, including quantum meruit and force majeure, offering insights into the principles
governing compensation for services rendered and unforeseen events impacting contractual
performance. As the discussion culminates in an examination of the Specific Relief Act, 1963, the
focus sharpens on specific performance and injunctions as potent tools for enforcing contractual
obligations and protecting legal rights. This comprehensive analysis thus illuminates the
multifaceted nature of contractual remedies, blending legal precedent with equitable principles to
offer a holistic understanding of contractual enforcement in the legal landscape.
A. Damages:
i. Types of Damages,
ii. Liquidated damages,
iii. Remoteness of Damages,
iv. Rule of Hadley vs. Baxendale,
v. Measures of Damages
B. Doctrine of Penalty and Forfeiture
C. Quantum Meruit, Force Majeure
D. The Specific Relief Act, 1963:
i. Specific Performance and
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BA, LL. B (Hons.) SEMESTER: II, BATCH-2023-28
COURSE OUTLINE OF Law of Contract-I
ii. Injunctions
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Essential Readings:
1. Anirudh Wadhwa, Mulla The Indian Contract Act, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
2. Chitra Narayan R Yashod Vardhan, Pollock and Mulla’s The Indian Contract & Specific Relief
Acts, 16th Edition, Lexis Nexis
3. J. Beatson, A. Burrows, J. Cartwrights, Anson’s Law of Contract, 29 th Edition, Oxford
Publication
4. Professor Hugh Beale, Chitty on Contracts, 33rd Edition, Sweet and Maxwell
5. Rajesh Kapoor, Avatar Singh’s Law of Contract and Specific Relief, 13 th Edition, Eastern Book
Company
6. Dr. R. K. Bangia’s Contract – I, 17th Edition, Allahabad Law Agency,
7. P. C Markanda’s The Law of Contract, Lexis Nexis
1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of damages in contract law, including the various types,
measures, and principles governing their assessment, facilitating proficient evaluation and
calculation of damages in contractual disputes.
2. Acquire specialized knowledge concerning the doctrine of penalty and forfeiture, enabling critical
analysis and differentiation between enforceable contractual provisions and penal clauses.
3. Gain insight into equitable remedies such as quantum meruit and force majeure, fostering the
ability to assess and apply principles governing compensation for services rendered and unforeseen
events impacting contractual performance.
4. Enhance problem-solving skills by exploring the application of specific performance and
injunctions under the Specific Relief Act, 1963, facilitating effective enforcement and protection of
contractual rights and obligations.
5. Cultivate a nuanced understanding of legal precedent and equitable principles governing
contractual remedies, enabling informed decision-making and strategic advocacy in contractual
disputes and negotiations.
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