LawFoyerLaw PYQs / Mains / Legal Maxims & Equity
Questions-only research compilation
Legal Maxims and Principles of Equity: Mains Previous Year Questions (Subjective)
Topic-wise descriptive previous-year questions sourced from judicial-service mains papers and UPSC Law Optional papers. The focus is legal maxims, equitable doctrine, equitable rights and remedies. The included years run from 2006 to 2026. Questions remain linked to their examination sources.
Scope and verification
The compilation follows source-attributed descriptive examinations, not practice sets or predicted questions. Each linked paper was checked for relevant maxim or equitable-law prompts. Official UPSC scans are Grade A; attributable reproduced papers and indexed transcriptions are Grade B. The paper’s original wording must be consulted where a question is marked as a paraphrase.
85question occurrences
15source documents
2006–2026year span
The heading covers Legal Maxims and Principles of Equity. Related Latin maxims from tort, contract and criminal law are separated into their own topic. No model answers or answer outlines are supplied.
Search & filter
85 / 85 occurrences
Equity: foundations and history
8 source-attributed question occurrences
Equity and common law
Question 1 · #PYQ-001
Define equity and distinguish equitable principles from the common law.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English7 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q1(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 5 · #PYQ-005
Define equity and explain why it supplemented rather than destroyed the law.
Bihar2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Reception of equity in India
Question 2 · #PYQ-002
Discuss Indian legislation incorporating principles of equity.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English8 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q5(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Historical development
Question 3 · #PYQ-003
Examine the development of equity through the English Court of Chancery.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English8 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q6(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 6 · #PYQ-006
Explain the reasons for the Judicature Act, 1873, and changes introduced by it.
Bihar2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 7 · #PYQ-007
Discuss the nature, origin and historical growth of equity.
Bihar2011Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2011), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 8 · #PYQ-008
Discuss the historical circumstances responsible for the development of equity.
Bihar2006Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2006), Property Law / Law of Contracts and Torts, Q6.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Equity jurisdiction
Question 4 · #PYQ-004
Classify the different forms of equitable jurisdiction.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Core equitable maxims
23 source-attributed question occurrences
Clean hands
Question 9 · #PYQ-009
Explain the clean-hands maxim governing persons seeking equitable relief, with illustrations.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English8 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q2(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 16 · #PYQ-016
Explain the meaning and Indian applicability of “He who comes to equity must come with clean hands”.
West Bengal2022Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English10 marks
Asked in: West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022), Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22), Q1(a).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Question 21 · #PYQ-021
Explain the clean-hands maxim and the legal principles flowing from it. Instruction: explain any two of Q7(a)–(c).
Bihar2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q7(a), alternative.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Source qualification: Part of one optional three-item question, answer any two
Question 27 · #PYQ-027
Explain the maxim “He who comes into equity must come with clean hands”.
Bihar2014Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2014), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Delay and vigilance
Question 10 · #PYQ-010
Relate the principle that delay defeats equity to “vigilantibus non dormientibus jura subveniunt”.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English8 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q3(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 19 · #PYQ-019
Explain why equity aids vigilant persons rather than those who neglect their rights.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q7(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 29 · #PYQ-029
Explain the maxim “Delay defeats equity”.
Bihar2011Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2011), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q7(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Equity regards as done
Question 11 · #PYQ-011
Write a short note on “Equity considers that done what ought to be done”.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English4 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q4(a)(i).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Must do equity
Question 12 · #PYQ-012
Write a short note on “He who seeks equity must do equity”.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English4 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q4(a)(ii).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 24 · #PYQ-024
Explain the maxim “He who seeks equity must do equity”.
Bihar2017Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2017), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 28 · #PYQ-028
Explain “He who seeks equity must do equity”.
Bihar2011Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2011), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q7(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Equity acts in personam
Question 13 · #PYQ-013
Explain the maxim that equity acts in personam, using cases and examples.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English8 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q7(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
No wrong without remedy
Question 14 · #PYQ-014
Discuss the proposition that equity will not suffer a wrong without a remedy.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English8 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q8(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 22 · #PYQ-022
Explain the maxim that equity leaves no wrong without a remedy. Instruction: explain any two of Q7(a)–(c).
Bihar2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q7(b), alternative.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Source qualification: Part of one optional three-item question, answer any two
Question 30 · #PYQ-030
Explain, using illustrations, “Equity will not suffer a wrong without a remedy”.
Uttar Pradesh2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi5 marks
Asked in: Uttar Pradesh Civil Judge (PCS J) Mains (2018), Law Paper III, Q10(c)(i).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Intent over form
Question 15 · #PYQ-015
Explain why equity examines intention over form, especially contractual damages and penalties.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English8 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q9(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 18 · #PYQ-018
Explain the maxim “Equity looks to the intent rather than the form”.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q7(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Equality is equity
Question 17 · #PYQ-017
Explain the meaning and Indian applicability of “Equality is equity”.
West Bengal2022Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English10 marks
Asked in: West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022), Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22), Q1(b).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Question 23 · #PYQ-023
Explain the maxim “Equality is equity”. Instruction: explain any two of Q7(a)–(c).
Bihar2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q7(c), alternative.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Source qualification: Part of one optional three-item question, answer any two
Question 26 · #PYQ-026
Explain the maxim “Equality is equity”.
Bihar2014Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2014), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
First in time prevails
Question 20 · #PYQ-020
Explain the rule that earlier rights prevail when competing equities are equal.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi5 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q7(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Law prevails if equities equal
Question 25 · #PYQ-025
Explain the maxim “Where there is equal equity, the law shall prevail”.
Bihar2017Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2017), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 31 · #PYQ-031
Explain, using illustrations, when law prevails between equal equities.
Uttar Pradesh2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi5 marks
Asked in: Uttar Pradesh Civil Judge (PCS J) Mains (2018), Law Paper III, Q10(c)(ii).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Equitable rights and priorities
12 source-attributed question occurrences
Equitable interests
Question 32 · #PYQ-032
Define equitable rights and interests. Explain their nature and characteristics.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi15 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q6(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 33 · #PYQ-033
Describe the nature and classification of equitable rights and interests.
Bihar2014Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2014), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q9.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 34 · #PYQ-034
Distinguish legal interests from equitable interests.
Uttar Pradesh2018DistinguishEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: Uttar Pradesh Civil Judge (PCS J) Mains (2018), Law Paper III, Q10(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Mortgage and redemption
Question 35 · #PYQ-035
Explain “Once a mortgage, always a mortgage”, including any exceptions.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q5(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 36 · #PYQ-036
Can the equity of redemption be lawfully curtailed under the Transfer of Property Act?
Bihar2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q2(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 37 · #PYQ-037
Comment on the principle “Once a mortgage, always a mortgage”.
Bihar2017Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2017), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q3(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 54 · #PYQ-054
Write a short note on partial redemption.
West Bengal2022Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English5 marks
Asked in: West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022), Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22), Q4(a).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Question 55 · #PYQ-055
Write a short note on foreclosure.
West Bengal2022Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English5 marks
Asked in: West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022), Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22), Q4(b).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Doctrine of election
Question 38 · #PYQ-038
Explain, with examples, the doctrine of election and the prohibition on approbating and reprobating.
Bihar2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q1(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 39 · #PYQ-039
A company grants CEO A a residence and, by that deed, transfers a house belonging to A’s wife to B, expecting her to live with A. Must A’s wife elect?
Bihar2018Problem questionEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q1(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Priority in mortgages
Question 56 · #PYQ-056
Write a short note on tacking of mortgage.
West Bengal2022Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English5 marks
Asked in: West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022), Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22), Q4(c).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Marshalling
Question 57 · #PYQ-057
Write a short note on the doctrine of marshalling.
West Bengal2022Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English5 marks
Asked in: West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022), Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22), Q4(d).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Equitable remedies and relief
21 source-attributed question occurrences
Conversion and reconversion
Question 43 · #PYQ-043
Explain the doctrines of conversion and reconversion.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q8(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Relief against mistake
Question 44 · #PYQ-044
Discuss the availability of equitable relief where a mistake has occurred.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q8(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Rescission and restitution
Question 45 · #PYQ-045
Critically discuss rescission of contracts. May a court require the rescinding party to do equity?
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English6 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q7(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Rectification of instruments
Question 46 · #PYQ-046
When may an instrument be rectified? Discuss the general principles of rectification.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English6 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q6(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Cancellation of instruments
Question 47 · #PYQ-047
On which grounds may a legal instrument be cancelled?
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English6 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q5(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Declaratory relief
Question 48 · #PYQ-048
Explain declaratory decrees and their legal effect.
Jammu and Kashmir2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English7 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q8(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Injunctions
Question 49 · #PYQ-049
When are perpetual injunctions granted, and how do they differ from temporary injunctions?
Jammu and Kashmir2018DistinguishEditorial paraphraseSource: English6 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q9(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 52 · #PYQ-052
Set out the general principles governing the grant of injunctions.
West Bengal2022Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English15 marks
Asked in: West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022), Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22), Q5.
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Question 60 · #PYQ-060
Define injunctions, classify them and discuss principles governing their grant.
Bihar2017Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2017), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q9.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 62 · #PYQ-062
Define an injunction and describe its different kinds.
Bihar2011Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2011), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q10.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 63 · #PYQ-063
In what circumstances may a temporary injunction be granted?
Bihar2006Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2006), Property Law / Law of Contracts and Torts, Q10.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 65 · #PYQ-065
Explain temporary-injunction principles and when perpetual injunctions may be granted.
Uttar Pradesh2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi15 marks
Asked in: Uttar Pradesh Civil Judge (PCS J) Mains (2018), Law Paper III, Q6(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Specific performance
Question 50 · #PYQ-050
Which contracts permit specific performance? A agrees to buy a deceased artist’s painting and two rare Chinese vases from B. Can A compel delivery?
Jammu and Kashmir2018Problem questionEditorial paraphraseSource: English6 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q3(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 51 · #PYQ-051
Identify contracts excluded from specific performance. Can a publisher compel an author to finish a literary work?
Jammu and Kashmir2018Problem questionEditorial paraphraseSource: English6 marks
Asked in: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018), Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief, Q4(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 53 · #PYQ-053
State the defences that can be raised in proceedings for specific performance.
West Bengal2022Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English15 marks
Asked in: West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022), Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22), Q6.
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Question 58 · #PYQ-058
Identify the contractual defences available against a claim for specific performance.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi15 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q10(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 59 · #PYQ-059
Who is entitled to obtain specific performance of a contract?
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q10(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 61 · #PYQ-061
Explain the principle behind specific performance and its application with case law.
Bihar2017Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2017), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Q10.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 64 · #PYQ-064
When can a contract be specifically performed?
Bihar2006Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2006), Property Law / Law of Contracts and Torts, Q9.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Specific relief
Question 66 · #PYQ-066
When may an injunction not be granted under the Specific Relief Act, 1963?
Himachal Pradesh2012Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English
Asked in: Himachal Pradesh Judicial Service Mains (2012), Civil Law I, Q5(d).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Unjust enrichment
Question 80 · #PYQ-080
Explain why law and justice should prevent unjust enrichment, referring to the Indian Contract Act, 1872.
National2025Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2025), Law Optional Paper II, Q5(a).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Other legal maxims
18 source-attributed question occurrences
Actus curiae neminem gravabit
Question 67 · #PYQ-067
Explain the maxim “Actus curiae neminem gravabit”.
Himachal Pradesh2012Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English
Asked in: Himachal Pradesh Judicial Service Mains (2012), Civil Law I, Q4(d).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Res ipsa loquitur
Question 68 · #PYQ-068
Explain “Res ipsa loquitur” with illustrations.
Uttar Pradesh2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi5 marks
Asked in: Uttar Pradesh Civil Judge (PCS J) Mains (2018), Law Paper III, Q5(c)(i).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 77 · #PYQ-077
Does “Res ipsa loquitur” reverse the “burden of proof” completely? Comment.
National2026Explain/DiscussVerbatim short questionSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2026), Law Optional Paper II, Q1(a).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Ubi jus ibi remedium
Question 69 · #PYQ-069
Explain “Ubi jus ibi remedium” with illustrations.
Uttar Pradesh2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi5 marks
Asked in: Uttar Pradesh Civil Judge (PCS J) Mains (2018), Law Paper III, Q5(c)(ii).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 70 · #PYQ-070
Discuss the maxim that a right carries a remedy, with reference to contractual breach remedies.
Bihar2006Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2006), Property Law / Law of Contracts and Torts, Contracts and Torts Q5.
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Question 72 · #PYQ-072
Explain “Ubi jus ibi remedium”.
Bihar2021Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Law of Torts Q8(b)(i).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Source qualification: Q8(b) allocated 10 marks jointly to subparts (i) and (ii)
Question 79 · #PYQ-079
Explain, with decided cases, the development of tort law from ubi jus ibi remedium.
National2025Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi15 marks
Asked in: UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2025), Law Optional Paper II, Q3(b).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Volenti non fit injuria
Question 71 · #PYQ-071
A passenger accepts a lift after the driver admits having no licence. Faulty brakes cause a collision. Can the driver invoke “volenti non fit injuria”?
Bihar2021Problem questionEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Law of Torts Q7(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Source qualification: Paraphrase retains key facts; consult original paper for full facts
Question 78 · #PYQ-078
Discuss volenti non fit injuria as a tort defence, including limitations.
National2026Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi15 marks
Asked in: UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2026), Law Optional Paper II, Q2(c).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Question 84 · #PYQ-084
Explain volenti non fit injuria. Is mere knowledge of danger equivalent to consent to the risk? Support with cases.
National2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi15 marks
Asked in: UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2018), Law Optional Paper II, Q2(b).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Actio personalis
Question 73 · #PYQ-073
Explain the personal-action maxim referred to in Q8(b)(ii).
Bihar2021Short noteEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Law of Torts Q8(b)(ii).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Source qualification: Source prints variant wording; check linked paper for original Latin; 10 marks shared with Q8(b)(i)
Damnum sine injuria and injuria sine damnum
Question 74 · #PYQ-074
Compare damnum sine injuria with injuria sine damnum and comment upon their relationship.
Bihar2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Law of Torts Q7(b).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Nemo dat quod non habet
Question 75 · #PYQ-075
Discuss “Nemo dat quod non habet”, including its exceptions.
Bihar2021Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi15 marks
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Commercial Law Q1(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Caveat emptor
Question 76 · #PYQ-076
Explain “Caveat emptor” and discuss its exceptions.
Bihar2014Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi
Asked in: Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2014), Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief, Commercial Law Q1(a).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea
Question 81 · #PYQ-081
Explain the mens rea maxim “Actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea” with decided cases.
National2024Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2024), Law Optional Paper II, Q1(a).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Question 85 · #PYQ-085
Discuss whether “actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea” and the common-law mens rea doctrine apply when interpreting IPC provisions, citing juristic views and decisions.
National2018Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2018), Law Optional Paper II, Q1(a).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Mens rea and actus reus
Question 82 · #PYQ-082
Explain why an offence generally involves both mens rea and actus reus.
National2022Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English and Hindi10 marks
Asked in: UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2022), Law Optional Paper II, Q1(a).
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Evidence: A: Official/authenticated paper · Open question paper/source
Estoppel by silence
Question 83 · #PYQ-083
Explain estoppel by silence and distinguish estoppel from presumption.
Himachal Pradesh2012Explain/DiscussEditorial paraphraseSource: English
Asked in: Himachal Pradesh Judicial Service Mains (2012), Civil Law I, Q6(c).
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
Evidence: B: Attributed reproduction · Open question paper/source
No matched questions. Clear filters or use another search.
Question-source documents
- UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2026): Law Optional Paper II. Tier A, 2 included occurrence(s).
- UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2025): Law Optional Paper II. Tier A, 2 included occurrence(s).
- UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2024): Law Optional Paper II. Tier A, 1 included occurrence(s).
- West Bengal Judicial Service Mains (2022): Optional V: Principles of Equity including Trust and Specific Relief (JSS(O)/V/22). Tier A, 8 included occurrence(s).
- UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2022): Law Optional Paper II. Tier A, 1 included occurrence(s).
- Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2021): Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief. Tier B, 14 included occurrence(s).
- UPSC Civil Services Mains (Law Optional) (2018): Law Optional Paper II. Tier A, 2 included occurrence(s).
- Uttar Pradesh Civil Judge (PCS J) Mains (2018): Law Paper III. Tier B, 6 included occurrence(s).
- Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Judicial) Mains (2018): Optional III: Equity, Trust and Specific Relief. Tier B, 17 included occurrence(s).
- Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2018): Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief. Tier B, 11 included occurrence(s).
- Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2017): Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief. Tier B, 6 included occurrence(s).
- Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2014): Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief. Tier B, 4 included occurrence(s).
- Himachal Pradesh Judicial Service Mains (2012): Civil Law I. Tier B, 3 included occurrence(s).
- Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2011): Law of Transfer of Property and Principles of Equity including Trusts and Specific Relief. Tier B, 4 included occurrence(s).
- Bihar Judicial Services Mains (2006): Property Law / Law of Contracts and Torts. Tier B, 4 included occurrence(s).
Nationwide coverage audit and limitations
Verified/source-attributed occurrences: 85; distinct prompt texts: 85; source documents: 15; states or jurisdictions: Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal; national examination: UPSC Civil Services Law Optional.
Year range: 2006–2026. Evidence levels: 16 occurrences from official/authenticated papers (A); 69 from attributed reproductions (B). Grade B material is not presented as an official authority-hosted PDF.
Scope limitation: This is a documented partial nationwide compilation, not an exhaustive archive of every state or year. Most other state and Union Territory examination cycles, Higher Judicial Service papers, prosecutorial/law-officer recruitment papers and every intervening year have not been fully inspected. Not all historical paper copies are authority-hosted. Purely administrative trust questions and unrelated property-law prompts are outside the present theme. Where a short question has been paraphrased, follow the linked source for exact wording. No unsupported questions are included.
Question form: Entries labelled “Editorial paraphrase” faithfully condense sourced prompts without presenting them as verbatim quotations. Alternative subparts remain separately visible, with the paper’s choice instruction preserved. Marks are deliberately omitted where not directly confirmed.
LawFoyer · Mains Subjective Previous Year Questions · lawfoyer.in
