Tag: Environmental Law

Management Notes

Contract of Indemnity

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Contract of Indemnity is defined under Section 124 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872. It refers to a contract in which one party promises to protect the other party from loss caused by the conduct of the promisor or any third party. The party giving the indemnity is called the indemnifier, and the party receiving the indemnity is called the indemnified or indemnitee. The primary objective is to shift the burden of loss from the indemnified to the indemnifier. Such contracts are common in insurance, business deals, and agency relationships. The indemnified can claim for damages, legal costs, and amounts paid in a settlement of legal disputes.

Legal Definition:

Section 124 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872 defines a contract of indemnity as:

“A contract by which one party promises to save the other from loss caused to him by the conduct of the promisor himself, or by the conduct of any other person.”

Example:

  • Insurance Contracts: An insurance company (indemnifier) agrees to compensate the insured (indemnified) for losses due to fire, theft, etc.

  • Business Agreements: A seller indemnifies a buyer against legal disputes over product ownership.

Essential Elements of a Valid Indemnity Contract:

For a contract of indemnity to be legally enforceable, it must satisfy the following conditions:

(a) Two Parties

  • Indemnifier (Promisor): The person who promises to compensate for the loss.

  • Indemnified (Promisee): The person who receives the protection against loss.

(b) Protection Against Loss

  • The indemnity must cover losses arising from:

    • The indemnifier’s own actions.

    • Actions of a third party.

    • Any specified events (e.g., breach of contract, legal liabilities).

(c) Express or Implied Agreement

  • The contract can be written or oral, but written agreements are preferable for legal clarity.

  • Example of implied indemnity: An agent incurring expenses on behalf of the principal is entitled to reimbursement.

(d) Lawful Consideration

Like any contract, indemnity must be supported by lawful consideration (money, service, or a promise).

(e) Intention to Create Legal Obligation

Both parties must intend for the agreement to be legally binding.

Rights of the Indemnified Party (Section 125)

The indemnified party has the following rights:

  • Right to Recover Damages

If sued, the indemnified can recover compensation from the indemnifier.

  • Right to Recover Costs

The indemnified can claim legal costs incurred in defending a lawsuit (if covered under the indemnity).

  • Right to Recover Sums Paid Under Compromise

If the indemnified settles a claim with the indemnifier’s consent, they can recover the amount.

Example:

  • If ‘A’ indemnifies ‘B’ against a lawsuit by ‘C’, and ‘B’ pays ₹50,000 in settlement (with ‘A’s approval), ‘B’ can recover this amount from ‘A’.

Management Notes

Contract of Guarantee

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Contract of Guarantee is an important legal instrument under the Indian Contract Act, 1872 (Section 126) that plays a significant role in commercial and financial transactions. It is designed to provide a security mechanism for the repayment of debts or the performance of obligations by a third party. The essence of this contract lies in the involvement of three parties and the promise made by one to discharge the liability of another in case of default.

Definition (Section 126 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872)

Contract of Guarantee is a contract to perform the promise or discharge the liability of a third person in case of his default. It involves three parties:

  1. Creditor: The person to whom the guarantee is given

  2. Principal Debtor: The person in respect of whose default the guarantee is given

  3. Surety: The person who gives the guarantee

Characteristics of a Contract of Guarantee:

  • Tripartite Agreement

Although the contract may not be signed by all three parties at the same time, it must be made with the knowledge and consent of all parties.

  • Primary and Secondary Liability

The principal debtor has primary liability to pay the debt. The surety’s liability is secondary and arises only when the principal debtor defaults.

  • Consideration

A guarantee is valid only if there is valid consideration. The consideration received by the principal debtor is treated as sufficient for the surety as well.

  • Written or Oral

Under Indian law, a contract of guarantee may be either oral or written. However, for legal clarity and enforceability, it is usually documented in writing.

Essentials of a Valid Contract:

As with any valid contract, a contract of guarantee must have:

    • Free consent

    • Lawful consideration

    • Lawful object

    • Competent parties

    • Offer and acceptance

Types of Guarantee:

  • Specific Guarantee

It is given for a single transaction or debt and comes to an end once that specific transaction is completed.

  • Continuing Guarantee (Section 129)

This is a guarantee that extends to a series of transactions. It remains in force until it is revoked by the surety or by death (in case of the surety).

Revocation of Guarantee:

  • By Notice (Section 130):

A continuing guarantee can be revoked by the surety at any time for future transactions by giving notice to the creditor.

  • By Death (Section 131):

The death of the surety also revokes a continuing guarantee for future transactions unless otherwise agreed.

Liability of Surety (Section 128):

  • The liability of the surety is co-extensive with that of the principal debtor unless it is otherwise stated in the contract.

  • This means that the surety is liable to the same extent as the principal debtor, and the creditor can proceed directly against the surety without first exhausting remedies against the principal debtor.

Rights of the Surety:

  1. Against Principal Debtor

    • Right of Subrogation (Section 140): Once the surety pays the debt, he steps into the shoes of the creditor and gains all the rights the creditor had against the principal debtor.

    • Right of Indemnity (Section 145): The surety is entitled to be indemnified by the principal debtor for all payments lawfully made by him.

  2. Against Creditor

    • Right to Securities (Section 141): The surety is entitled to the benefit of every security which the creditor has against the principal debtor at the time of entering into the contract of guarantee.

    • If the creditor loses or parts with such security without the surety’s consent, the surety is discharged to that extent.

  3. Against Co-sureties (Section 146–147)

    • When multiple sureties are involved, they share liability equally unless there is a contract stating otherwise.

    • If one surety pays more than his share, he can recover the excess from co-sureties.

Discharge of Surety from Liability:

A surety is discharged from liability in the following circumstances:

  1. Revocation of guarantee (Sections 130–131)

  2. Variance in terms of the contract (Section 133) without the consent of the surety

  3. Release or discharge of the principal debtor (Section 134)

  4. Creditor’s act or omission impairing surety’s remedy (Section 139)

  5. Loss of security by the creditor (Section 141)

Invalid Guarantees:

A contract of guarantee becomes invalid if:

  • It is obtained by misrepresentation or concealment of material facts

  • The surety signs under coercion or undue influence

  • The contract lacks consideration

Examples of Contract of Guarantee:

  1. A bank providing a loan to a borrower, backed by a guarantor.

  2. A person guarantees payment for goods supplied to another.

  3. A student’s fees guaranteed by a parent.

Management Notes

Formation of Contract in Sale of Good Act, 1930:

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The formation of a contract of sale under the Sale of Goods Act, 1930 follows the general principles of contract law as per the Indian Contract Act, 1872, with specific provisions related to the sale and purchase of goods. It involves an agreement where the seller transfers or agrees to transfer the ownership of goods to the buyer for a price.

✅ Key Elements in the Formation of a Contract of Sale:

1. Offer and Acceptance

A valid contract begins with an offer by the seller to sell goods and the acceptance by the buyer to purchase them. The communication must be clear and mutual.

📝 Example: A shopkeeper offers to sell a fan for ₹2000. The buyer agrees. A contract is formed.

2. Two Parties

There must be at least two separate legal entities — one buyer and one seller. One person cannot be both.

3. Consideration (Price)

The consideration must be money or money’s worth. If goods are exchanged for goods, it’s barter, not a sale.

📝 Example: Selling a book for ₹500 is a valid sale; exchanging two books is not.

4. Subject Matter – Movable Goods

The contract must involve movable goods only. Immovable property (like land) is not governed by this Act.

5. Transfer or Agreement to Transfer Property

There must be an intention to transfer ownership of the goods:

  • Sale: Immediate transfer of ownership

  • Agreement to Sell: Ownership is transferred later (on future date or condition)

6. Capacity to Contract

Both parties must be competent to contract as per Section 11 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872:

  • Must be of sound mind

  • Must be above 18 years

  • Must not be disqualified by law

7. Free Consent

The contract must be made with free consent, i.e., not caused by coercion, undue influence, fraud, misrepresentation, or mistake.

8. Lawful Object

The objective of the sale must be legal. Contracts for smuggling goods or selling banned items are void.

9. Certainty of Goods and Price

  • The goods must be clearly defined or ascertained.

  • The price may be fixed, determined in a manner agreed (like market price), or decided by a third party.

10. Modes of Formation (Section 5)

A contract of sale may be:

  • Oral or Written

  • Implied by Conduct

  • Made by Offer and Acceptance
    It may also include conditions or warranties.

Management Notes

Performance of contract of sale

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The performance of a contract of sale involves various obligations and duties that both the seller and the buyer must fulfill for the transaction to be completed satisfactorily. The Sale of Goods Act, 1930, in India, outlines these responsibilities in detail, ensuring that there is clarity and fairness in commercial transactions involving the sale of goods.

Duties of the Seller

  • Delivery of Goods:

The seller is required to deliver the goods to the buyer as per the terms of the contract. This involves making the goods available to the buyer at the designated location and time, in the correct quantity and quality, and in a deliverable state.

  • Transfer of Property:

The seller must ensure that the property in the goods is transferred to the buyer, giving the buyer the right to own, use, and dispose of the goods as they see fit, subject to the terms of the contract.

  • Transfer of Title Free from Encumbrances:

The seller should ensure that the title transferred to the buyer is free from any charges or encumbrances, unless explicitly agreed upon.

Duties of the Buyer

  • Acceptance of Delivery:

The buyer is obligated to accept the goods when they are delivered in accordance with the contract. This involves taking physical possession of the goods and acknowledging that the delivery fulfills the contract terms.

  • Payment:

The buyer must pay the price for the goods as stipulated in the contract. The payment should be made at the time and place agreed upon in the contract, and in the absence of such agreement, payment is to be made at the time and place of delivery.

Delivery of Goods

  • Place of Delivery:

The place for the delivery of goods is determined by the contract. In the absence of such a stipulation, the goods are to be delivered at the place where they are at the time of the sale.

  • Time of Delivery:

If the contract specifies a time for delivery, the goods must be delivered accordingly. In contracts where time is not specified, the delivery should be made within a reasonable time.

  • Delivery in Installments:

Unless otherwise agreed, the goods must be delivered in a single delivery, and payment is to be made accordingly. Delivery by installments may be allowed if the contract so specifies or if it is customary in the trade.

  • Expenses of Delivery:

The cost of putting the goods into a deliverable state is generally borne by the seller unless there is an agreement to the contrary.

Acceptance of Goods

  • Examination of Goods:

The buyer has the right to examine the goods on delivery to ensure they conform to the contract. The examination should be done within a reasonable time after delivery.

  • Acceptance:

Acceptance of the goods by the buyer occurs when the buyer intimates to the seller that the goods are accepted, does something in relation to the goods that is inconsistent with the ownership of the seller, or retains the goods without intimation of rejection within a reasonable time.

Payment

  • Manner of Payment:

The payment is to be made in the manner prescribed in the contract. If not specified, it should be made in cash.

  • Time of Payment:

Unless agreed otherwise, the payment is due on the delivery of the goods. If the goods are to be delivered at a different time from that of payment, payment is to be made at the time agreed upon.

Remedies for Breach

Both the seller and the buyer have specific remedies available to them in case of a breach of the contract by the other party. These include the right to sue for damages, the right to repudiate the contract, and specific performance, among others.

Management Notes

Price, Conditions and Warranties

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Price:

Another essential element of a contract of sale is that there must be some price for the goods. That means, the goods must be sold for some price. According to Sec. 2(10) of the Sale of Goods Act, the term price means “the money consideration for a sale of goods“.

Thus the price is the consideration for contract of sale which should be in terms of money. If the ownership of the goods is transferred for any consideration other than the money, that will not be a sale but an exchange. However, consideration can be paid partly in money and partly in goods.

For e.g., A delivered to B 10 cows valued at Rs.2,000 per cow. B delivered to A 20 bags of rice at Rs.750 per bag and paid the balance of Rs.5,000 in cash in exchange of the cows. This is a valid contract of sale.

Conditions:

In the context of the Sale of Goods Act, 1930, a condition refers to a fundamental stipulation that forms the essence of a contract of sale. It is a term that is so essential to the contract that its breach entitles the aggrieved party to repudiate the contract and refuse to accept the goods.

According to Section 12(2) of the Act, “A condition is a stipulation essential to the main purpose of the contract, the breach of which gives the aggrieved party a right to repudiate the contract.”

For example, if a buyer purchases a new diesel generator and it is delivered as a petrol generator instead, the buyer can reject the goods and cancel the contract since the term breached is a condition related to the core purpose of the transaction.

Conditions may be express (explicitly agreed upon by both parties) or implied by law. Common implied conditions include:

  • Condition as to title (seller has the right to sell),

  • Condition as to description,

  • Condition as to quality or fitness for purpose,

  • Condition as to sample.

A breach of condition allows the buyer to reject the goods, terminate the contract, and/or claim damages. However, under some circumstances, the buyer may choose to treat the breach of condition as a breach of warranty and claim damages without repudiating the contract.

Types of Conditions:

  • Express Conditions

Express conditions are those explicitly mentioned in the contract of sale, either orally or in writing. These are agreed upon by both parties and are binding. For example, if a buyer specifies that goods must be delivered by a certain date or must be of a particular brand, failure to comply constitutes a breach of condition. Such conditions form the basis of the agreement and must be fulfilled for the contract to remain valid. Breach of an express condition entitles the buyer to reject the goods and repudiate the contract entirely.

  • Implied Condition as to Title

Section 14(a) of the Sale of Goods Act, 1930 implies a condition that the seller has the right to sell the goods. This means that the seller must possess ownership or authority to transfer the title. If a seller sells stolen goods unknowingly, the buyer can reject the goods and recover the price paid. The buyer is not obligated to retain goods if the seller’s title is defective. This condition protects the buyer’s legal ownership and ensures that no third party can rightfully claim the goods sold.

  • Implied Condition as to Description

When goods are sold by description, it is an implied condition that they must match the description provided. This condition ensures that the buyer gets what was promised. For example, if a seller describes a phone as a “Brand New iPhone 14 Pro,” and a different or used model is delivered, it constitutes a breach. The buyer is entitled to reject the goods. This type of condition is especially crucial in cases where the buyer has not seen the goods physically and relies solely on the seller’s representation.

  • Implied Condition as to Quality or Fitness

If a buyer informs the seller about the specific purpose for which goods are required, it is an implied condition that the goods should be suitable for that purpose. This applies when the buyer relies on the seller’s skill and judgment. For instance, if a buyer asks for paint suitable for outdoor use, and it peels off within days, the buyer can claim breach of condition. However, this does not apply when the buyer does not rely on the seller’s expertise or buys goods based on their own judgment.

  • Implied Condition as to Merchantable Quality

When goods are bought by description from a seller who deals in such goods, there is an implied condition that they must be of merchantable quality. This means the goods must be fit for general use and free from latent defects. For example, if a person buys a washing machine and it breaks down within a day, it would not be considered of merchantable quality. The buyer has the right to reject such goods. This protects consumers from defective or substandard products.

Warranty:

A warranty is a stipulation collateral to the main purpose of the contract, that is to say, it is a subsidiary promise. Its breach does not entitle the aggrieved party to repudiate the contract. He can only claim damages. Where there is a breach of warranty on the part of the seller, the buyer must accept the goods and claim damages. Where A purchases 100 bags of wheat from B. Wheat must be fit for human consumption. This is an essential stipulation. Hence it is called as condition. Other stipulations like packing, etc., is a minor one, hence called as warranty. Conditions and warranties may be express or implied. An express condition or warranty is one stated definitely in so many words as the basis of the contract. Implied conditions or warranties are those which attach to the contract by operation of law. The law incorporated them into the contract unless the parties agree to the contrary. A sold to B timber to be properly seasoned before shipment. It was agreed between the parties, that in case of dispute the buyer would not reject the goods but accept or pay for them against documents. It was held that the provision as to seasoning was not a condition but only a warranty. If the timber was not properly seasoned B had to accept it and claim damages for the breach of warranty.

The points of distinction between a condition and warranty can be summed up as under:

(1) A condition is a stipulation essential to the main purpose of a contract while a warranty is astipulation collateral to the main purpose of contract.

(2) Breach of condition gives the right to treat the contract as repudiated while the breach of warranty gives the right to claim for damages alone. The contract cannot be repudiated because the breach of warranty does not defeat the purpose of contract.

(3) A breach of condition may be treated as breach of warranty but a breach of warranty cannot be treated as breach of condition. Let us take an example to make these two terms clear. So where a man buys a particular horse which is warranted quiet to ride. The horse, turns out to be a vicious one. Buyers remedy is to claim damages unless he has expressly reserved the right to return the horse. Suppose instead of buying a particular horse, he specifically asks for a quiet  horse-that stipulations is a condition. Now the buyer can either return the horse or retain the horse and claim damages. (Hartley v. Hymans)

Types of warranties:

  • Express Warranty

An express warranty is a specific assurance or promise made by the seller regarding the quality, performance, or condition of the goods. It can be stated in writing or spoken at the time of sale. These warranties are clearly agreed upon by both parties and form part of the contract. For instance, a seller may claim a refrigerator will function properly for five years. If the goods fail to meet these conditions, the buyer is entitled to claim compensation or replacement. However, breach of a warranty does not void the contract; it only allows for damages.

  • Implied Warranty of Quiet Possession

This warranty implies that the buyer will enjoy undisturbed use and possession of the goods. Under Section 14(b) of the Sale of Goods Act, the seller guarantees that no third party will interfere with the buyer’s possession or claim ownership. For example, if a person buys a car and later someone claims legal ownership, the buyer can sue the seller for breach of this implied warranty. The aim is to protect the buyer’s right to use the goods peacefully without facing legal challenges or possession issues from others.

  • Implied Warranty of Freedom from Encumbrances

According to Section 14(c) of the Sale of Goods Act, there is an implied warranty that the goods are free from any undisclosed charges or encumbrances. This means the buyer should receive goods that are not subject to any third-party claim, lien, or mortgage. If the buyer discovers an undisclosed lien on the goods, they are entitled to damages. For example, if a person buys a second-hand laptop that is still under EMI liability, the buyer can sue the seller for breach of warranty if not informed prior.

  • Implied Warranty as to Quality or Fitness (in Specific Cases)

Though generally treated as a condition, in some cases, fitness for a particular purpose may be treated as a warranty, especially when the buyer has not fully relied on the seller’s skill or when goods are purchased under one’s own judgment. If the buyer does not expressly communicate the intended use or does not depend on the seller’s expertise, the fitness becomes a mere warranty. This protects sellers from extensive liability while still giving buyers the right to claim damages if the goods turn out defective under usual use.

  • Warranty Arising from Usage of Trade

In certain trades or industries, regular practices establish standard warranties. These are known as warranties arising from usage of trade. Even if not explicitly mentioned, such warranties are enforceable due to consistent industry practices. For example, in the textile industry, it might be a trade practice that dyed fabrics must not bleed color on first wash. If this expectation is not met, the buyer may claim damages under this warranty. It emphasizes how commercial customs and business traditions influence obligations between buyers and sellers.

  • Voluntary or Collateral Warranty

A collateral warranty is an additional assurance provided voluntarily by the seller without being a formal part of the sale contract. It may relate to future performance, durability, or after-sales service. These warranties are usually given to enhance customer confidence and are often supported with service commitments or return policies. For instance, a seller might offer a “30-day free replacement guarantee” as a collateral warranty. Though not legally mandatory, once stated, it becomes enforceable and a buyer can seek remedies if the seller fails to honor it.

When condition to be treated as Warranty

Section 13 of the Sales of Goods Act mentions 3 cases in which a condition sinks or descends to the level of a warranty. A condition descends to the level of a warranty in the following cases:

(1)   Where the buyer waives the condition;

(2)   Where the buyer treats the breach of condition as breach of warranty;

(3)   Where the contract is indivisible and the buyer has accepted the goods or part of the goods.

In all the above three cases the breach of a condition is deemed to be a breach of a warranty and buyer can only claim damages or compensation for the breach of the condition. He cannot repudiate the contract or refuse to take delivery of the goods. In the first two cases, a condition is treated a warranty. at the will of the buyer; but in the third case the breach of condition can be treated only as breach of warranty; for once the buyer has accepted the goods he cannot reject them on any ground. If on subsequent inspection a breach of condition is disclosed, he can treat that as breach of warranty and sue for damages.

Example: Suppose A promises to deliver 100 bales of cotton to B on 1st August, 80. A delivers the bales of cotton on 10th of August. Now in this contract, time is the essence of contract. B can refuse to accept the delivery. But he can also waive this right. He may treat this breach of condition as breach of warranty by accepting the goods and claim damages instead.

Warranties from the Seller

Buyers often overlook the warranties being made by the seller. There is no such thing as “standard warranties.” Warranties vary across industries and from company to company, so be sure to closely review the seller’s promises. Are the goods being sold “as-is”? Is the seller disclaiming the warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose? If so, this might undo any verbal promises about the goods made by the seller.

Management Notes

Rights and Remedies of Unpaid Seller

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An unpaid seller is a seller who has not received the full price of the goods sold or has received a conditional payment (like a cheque or bill of exchange) which has been dishonoured. As per the Sale of Goods Act, 1930 (Section 45), the seller is considered unpaid if the full consideration is not received, regardless of delivery. An unpaid seller enjoys several rights such as lien, stoppage in transit, resale, and suit for price or damages. These rights ensure that the seller is legally protected until payment is completed. The concept protects sellers from buyer default and strengthens trust in commercial transactions.

Rights of Unpaid Seller:

1. Right of Lien (Section 47)

An unpaid seller has the right of lien which allows them to retain possession of the goods until full payment is received. This right applies when the seller is in possession of the goods and the payment is due. It can be exercised even if the seller has a part-delivery. The lien is lost if the goods are delivered to a carrier without reserving rights.

2. Right of Stoppage in Transit (Section 50)

If the goods are in transit and the buyer becomes insolvent, the unpaid seller has the right to stop the goods mid-transit and regain possession. This ensures that goods are not delivered to a buyer who cannot pay. This right ends when the buyer or their agent takes actual delivery, thereby terminating the transit.

3. Right of Resale (Section 54)

The unpaid seller has the right to resell the goods if:

  • The goods are perishable,

  • There is an express reservation of resale in the contract,

  • Or after giving notice to the buyer, the buyer still fails to pay.

If proper notice is given, any loss is borne by the buyer, and any profit belongs to the seller. Without notice, the seller must return any surplus.

🔹 Rights Against the Buyer Personally

4. Right to Sue for Price (Section 55)

If the buyer refuses to pay the agreed price, the unpaid seller can file a suit for price, especially when the ownership of goods has already passed to the buyer. This right allows the seller to claim the contract price regardless of delivery, provided the conditions of the contract have been met.

5. Right to Sue for Damages (Section 56)

When the buyer wrongfully refuses to accept or pay for the goods, the unpaid seller can sue for damages caused by the breach of contract. The amount of damages is usually the difference between the contract price and the market price on the date of breach. This compensates the seller for the financial loss.

6. Right to Sue for Interest (Section 61)

The unpaid seller has the right to claim interest on the amount due from the date of default or from the date agreed upon in the contract. This right exists when the contract or usage of trade allows it. Courts may award interest as part of the compensation for delayed payment.

Remedies of Unpaid Seller:

I. Remedies Against the Goods

1. Right of Lien (Section 47–49)

The seller can retain possession of goods until full payment is made. This lien is available when:

  • The goods are sold without credit.

  • The credit period has expired.

  • The buyer becomes insolvent.

This right is lost if goods are delivered to a carrier without reserving disposal rights.

2. Right of Stoppage in Transit (Section 50–52)

If goods are in transit and the buyer becomes insolvent, the unpaid seller can stop the delivery and regain possession. This remedy protects the seller from delivering goods to a buyer who cannot pay. Transit ends when the buyer or their agent takes delivery.

3. Right of Resale (Section 54)

The unpaid seller may resell the goods:

  • Without notice, if goods are perishable.

  • With notice, if the buyer defaults despite warning.

If resale is without proper notice, the seller cannot claim loss from the buyer but must give any profit back.

II. Remedies Against the Buyer Personally

4. Suit for Price (Section 55)

The seller can file a suit to recover the contract price if:

  • Ownership has passed to the buyer, or

  • Price is payable on a fixed date irrespective of delivery.

This remedy gives the seller a direct right to demand payment legally.

5. Suit for Damages for Non-Acceptance (Section 56)

If the buyer wrongfully refuses to accept and pay for the goods, the seller can sue for damages. The amount is calculated based on the loss incurred, usually the difference between contract price and market price on the breach date.

6. Suit for Interest (Section 61)

The seller can claim interest on the unpaid amount from the due date or a date agreed in the contract. This compensates for the delay in payment. The court may decide the interest rate and duration based on fairness.

Management Notes

Share Capital, Features, Types

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Share Capital refers to the total amount of capital raised by a company through the issue of shares to shareholders. It represents the ownership interest of shareholders in the company and forms a major part of the company’s funding. Share capital is divided into Equity shares and Preference shares, and it can be further categorized into authorized, issued, subscribed, and paid-up capital. The concept of share capital is crucial in determining voting rights, dividends, and the extent of liability of shareholders. It enables companies to raise long-term funds without incurring debt and provides investors with an opportunity to share in profits and ownership.

Features of Share Capital:

Share capital is the money raised by a company through the issuance of shares. It forms the financial foundation of a company and signifies the shareholders’ stake in the ownership of the business. The features of share capital reflect its role in corporate structure, investor relations, and financial stability.

1. Permanent Source of Capital

Share capital is a long-term and permanent source of finance for a company. Unlike loans or debentures, it is not repaid during the lifetime of the company. It stays invested in the business to support growth, operations, and expansion. This permanence strengthens the company’s financial structure and gives confidence to creditors. It is repayable only at the time of winding up, subject to the provisions of the Companies Act and satisfaction of liabilities.

2. Ownership Right

Share capital represents the ownership of the company. Shareholders are regarded as owners and not creditors of the company. The extent of their ownership depends on the number and type of shares they hold. Equity shareholders, in particular, have voting rights, control over company decisions, and a share in residual profits. This ownership right makes share capital unique as compared to borrowed funds, where lenders do not hold any ownership interest in the business.

3. Divisible into Small Units

Share capital is divided into small and equal parts called shares. This divisibility allows companies to raise capital from a large number of investors, even with small contributions. Each share has a nominal (face) value, and the shareholders receive share certificates as proof of ownership. This feature makes it easier for the company to mobilize large capital through public participation and offers flexibility to investors to invest as per their capacity.

4. Variety of Types

Share capital can be classified into different types to suit both company requirements and investor preferences. Major types include:

  • Authorized capital: maximum capital a company can raise

  • Issued capital: part offered to investors

  • Subscribed and paid-up capital: actually bought and paid for

  • Equity and preference shares: based on rights and returns

This classification helps companies structure their capital efficiently and offer flexibility in fundraising.

5. Limited Liability of Shareholders

A key feature of share capital is that it comes with limited liability for shareholders. Their financial responsibility is restricted to the unpaid amount on the shares they hold. They are not liable for company debts beyond this amount. This limitation encourages wider public investment as individuals are assured that their personal assets are protected. It distinguishes shareholders from proprietors or partners in firms who may face unlimited liability.

6. Transferability

In the case of public companies, shares representing share capital are generally freely transferable. Shareholders can sell their shares to others without seeking company approval (subject to applicable regulations). This feature ensures liquidity for investors, allowing them to exit when needed. However, in private companies, share transfer is usually restricted by the Articles of Association. Transferability adds flexibility and encourages investment in the corporate sector.

7. Right to Receive Dividends

Share capital entitles shareholders to dividends, which are a share in the company’s profits. While equity shareholders receive variable dividends declared by the company’s board, preference shareholders receive a fixed rate of dividend. Dividends are distributed only out of available profits and are not guaranteed. Still, the right to earn returns in the form of dividends makes shares an attractive investment, aligning investor interests with the company’s success.

Types of Share Capital:

  • Authorized Share Capital

Also known as nominal or registered capital, it refers to the maximum amount of capital that a company is authorized to raise through the issue of shares, as mentioned in its Memorandum of Association (MOA). A company cannot issue shares beyond this limit unless it amends the MOA by passing a resolution and obtaining regulatory approvals. Authorized capital determines the upper ceiling of a company’s financial base and is not necessarily fully issued or subscribed initially.

  • Issued Share Capital

Issued capital is the portion of authorized capital that the company actually offers to the public or investors for subscription. It may be equal to or less than the authorized capital. The company may issue shares in one or more stages, depending on its funding needs. For example, if a company has ₹10 lakh authorized capital and offers ₹5 lakh worth of shares to the public, then ₹5 lakh is the issued capital. It reflects the company’s active fundraising efforts.

  • Subscribed Share Capital

Subscribed capital is the part of issued capital that has been subscribed or agreed to be purchased by investors. It shows how much of the issued capital has actually been taken up by the public or private investors. For instance, if a company issues ₹5 lakh worth of shares and the public subscribes to ₹4 lakh, then the subscribed capital is ₹4 lakh. This type indicates the market response and investor confidence in the company.

  • Called-up Share Capital

Called-up capital is the portion of subscribed capital that the company has asked shareholders to pay. Companies may not ask for the full face value of shares immediately but may demand it in installments. For example, if a shareholder subscribes to 1,000 shares of ₹10 each and the company has called up only ₹6 per share, the called-up capital is ₹6,000. It indicates the actual demand made by the company for capital infusion.

  • Paid-up Share Capital

Paid-up capital is the portion of called-up capital that the shareholders have actually paid to the company. It is the real amount received by the company and forms part of the permanent capital. If some shareholders default in paying calls, then the paid-up capital is less than the called-up capital. For example, if ₹6,000 was called up and ₹5,800 was paid, then the paid-up capital is ₹5,800. It reflects the actual cash inflow from share capital.

  • Uncalled Capital

Uncalled capital is the portion of subscribed capital which has not yet been demanded (or “called”) by the company from its shareholders. This amount can be called in the future if the company needs additional funds. It represents a potential source of funding and is common in cases where shares are not fully paid up. It remains with shareholders until the company makes a formal call.

  • Reserve Capital

Reserve capital is a part of the uncalled capital that the company decides will be called up only at the time of winding up. It cannot be used during the lifetime of the company. The company must pass a special resolution to create reserve capital. It acts as a safety buffer for creditors in the event of liquidation, ensuring that some capital remains available to settle liabilities when the company is dissolved.

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