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Under section 21 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, what is the effect of a mistake about a law in force…

Under section 21, a mistake as to a law in force in India does not by itself make a contract voidable. A mistake about a law not in force in India is treated as a mistake of…

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Under section 21 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, what is the effect of a mistake about a law in force in India, by itself, on a contract?

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Answer and explanation

Correct answer D

Under section 21, a mistake as to a law in force in India does not by itself make a contract voidable. A mistake about a law not in force in India is treated as a mistake of fact. Other grounds for challenging a contract are assessed separately.

Option feedback

Option A

Incorrect. A domestic legal mistake alone does not make the contract void.

Option B

Incorrect. Section 21 expressly rules out avoidance on that ground alone.

Option C

Incorrect. Section 21 does not make ratification a condition of enforcement because of the mistake alone.

Option D

Correct. The contract is not voidable solely because it was caused by a mistake as to a law in force in India.

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