Principles of Statutory Interpretation Justice G.P. Singh is widely considered the definitive authority on how courts should read and apply legislation in India. First published decades ago, it remains a standard reference for the Supreme Court and High Courts, which frequently cite its chapters to resolve legal ambiguities. Core Philosophy: Discerning Legislative Intent
The Supreme Court in M/s. Padma Sundara Rao v. State of T.N. (2002) relied on G.P. Singh to hold that when a statutory provision prescribes a strict timeline (e.g., Section 6 of the Land Acquisition Act), the court cannot extend it simply because it feels the delay is reasonable. The literal text must prevail. principles of statutory interpretation gp singh