Question

The Indian Contract Act, 1872, provides for specific situations where an agreement without consideration is not void. Which of the following is valid despite lack of consideration?

• A. A oral promise by 'A' to pay 'B' ₹5,000 for a service voluntarily rendered last month
• B. A written and registered promise by a husband, out of natural love and affection, to transfer property to his wife
• C. A promise to subscribe ₹1 lakh to a public charitable fund
• D. A promise made by a minor upon attaining majority to pay a debt incurred during his minority

Hint:

Section 25 → Three exceptions: natural love (written + registered), past voluntary service, and time-barred debt.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Apply Section 25 exceptions.
Under Section 25(1), agreements without consideration are valid if made out of natural love and affection and expressed in writing and registered.
Step 2: Evaluate the options.
Only option (2) fits all statutory conditions—written, registered, natural love and affection.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Hence, only option (2) is enforceable without consideration.