Question

English case Ryland V/s. Fletcher laid down a very important rule

• A. Absolute Liability
• B. Vicarious liability
• C. Indirect liability
• D. Financial liability

Hint:

Remember the distinction: The English case Rylands v. Fletcher established Strict Liability (with exceptions). The Indian case M.C. Mehta v. UOI established Absolute Liability (no exceptions for hazardous industries). In exams, if "Strict Liability" is not an option, "Absolute Liability" may be the intended answer representing the evolved principle.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question refers to the landmark English case of Rylands v. Fletcher, which is a foundational case in the law of torts. It established a new basis for liability where fault (negligence) does not need to be proven.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The rule laid down in Rylands v. Fletcher (1868) is the rule of Strict Liability. This rule states that a person who, for their own purposes, brings on their land and collects and keeps there anything likely to do mischief if it escapes, must keep it in at their peril, and if they do not do so, is prima facie answerable for all the damage which is the natural consequence of its escape.
This rule was subject to several exceptions (e.g., Act of God, plaintiff's own fault).
In the Indian context, the Supreme Court, in the case of M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (Oleum Gas Leak case), evolved this principle further into the rule of Absolute Liability. This rule is a stricter form of liability with no exceptions, applicable to enterprises engaged in hazardous or inherently dangerous activities.
The options provided do not include "Strict Liability." In the context of Indian law competitive exams, the rule of Absolute Liability is often seen as the Indian evolution of the Rylands v. Fletcher principle. Given the options, "Absolute Liability" is the most appropriate choice, representing the advanced and stricter principle applied in India.

Step 4: Final Answer:
While the case of Rylands v. Fletcher technically established the rule of Strict Liability, in the context of its evolution in Indian law and the given options, Absolute Liability is the intended answer.