Question

A.K. Kraipak v. Union of India AR 1970 SC 150 the Supreme Court recognised the evolving nature of quasi-judicial powers, holding that certain powers previously deemed administrative could now be quasi-judicial. Which of the following best encapsulates the Court’s approach to the application of natural justice in administrative proceedings?

• A. Natural justice is limited to formal quasi-judicial functions where a statute expressly mandates its application, excluding purely administrative decisions.
• B. The procedural requirements of natural justice are irrelevant to administrative functions unless personal rights are specifically affected by a statute
• C. The distinction between administrative and quasi-judicial powers is no longer determinative, and natural justice principles must be applied whenever individual rights or interests are at stake, regardless of the classification of the power
• D. Natural justice principles apply to all quasi-judicial decisions, but administrative decisions are exempt unless there is a statutory provision requiring it.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

In A.K. Kraipak v. Union of India, the distinction between administrative and quasi-judicial powers is no longer determinative, and natural justice principles must be applied whenever individual rights or interests are at stake, regardless of the classification of the power.