The study of the Interpretation of Statutes occupies a central position in legal education and judicial practice. Statutes constitute the primary source of law in modern legal systems, yet their effective application depends upon a proper understanding of the language, purpose, and legislative intent underlying every enactment. As society evolves and legal issues become increasingly complex, the role of statutory interpretation assumes greater significance in ensuring that the law remains just, relevant, and responsive to contemporary needs.
This book has been prepared with the objective of providing students, teachers, legal practitioners, judicial aspirants, and researchers with a comprehensive, systematic, and up-to-date understanding of the principles governing statutory interpretation. It explains the meaning, nature, scope, and classification of statutes before examining the established rules of interpretation, including the literal, golden, mischief, and purposive approaches. The book also discusses important legal maxims, presumptions of statutory interpretation, the provisions of the General Clauses Act, 1897, and the distinction between interpretation and construction.