Question:
Principle: Interference with another’s goods so as to deny the latter’s title amounts to conversion, a civil wrong. It is an intentional act inconsistent with the owner’s rights, even without an intention to take or keep the property.
Facts: 'R' went to a cycle stand to park his bicycle. Seeing it full, he moved some bicycles, including 'S’s bicycle, to make space. In a hurry, 'R' did not put back 'S’s bicycle. Someone took 'S’s bicycle, as the watchman did not realize it was part of the stand. 'S' sues 'R' for conversion.
Principle: Interference with another’s goods so as to deny the latter’s title amounts to conversion, a civil wrong. It is an intentional act inconsistent with the owner’s rights, even without an intention to take or keep the property.
Facts: 'R' went to a cycle stand to park his bicycle. Seeing it full, he moved some bicycles, including 'S’s bicycle, to make space. In a hurry, 'R' did not put back 'S’s bicycle. Someone took 'S’s bicycle, as the watchman did not realize it was part of the stand. 'S' sues 'R' for conversion.
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Conversion does not require bad intention—only wrongful interference depriving the owner of possession.
Updated On: Aug 11, 2025
- 'R' could not be held liable for the negligence of the watchman
- 'S' would succeed because 'R's act led to the stealing of his bicycle
- 'S' would not succeed because 'R' did not take away the bicycle himself
- 'S' would not succeed because 'R’s intention was not bad
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Conversion focuses on interference with the owner’s goods that deprives them of possession, regardless of intention. 'R' moved 'S’s bicycle and left it vulnerable, leading directly to its loss, which makes him liable for conversion.
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