Question

Which of the following statements correctly states the doctrine of promissory estoppel as applied against the Government in India?

Q: Answer-Which of the following statements correctly states the doctrine of promissory estoppel as applied ag...

The doctrine of promissory estoppel, recognised in Anglo Afghan Agencies 1968 and Motilal Padampat Sugar Mills v. State of Uttar Pradesh 1979, holds that a party who makes a promise or representation intending that it should be acted upon, and on which the other party acts to his detriment, cannot resile from it. The Supreme Court has held that the doctrine applies even against the Government and in the absence of consideration.

A the Government is never bound by any promise made by its officers, however clear.

B a clear and unambiguous promise made by the Government, intended to be acted upon and in fact acted upon, can estop the Government from resiling from it.

C promissory estoppel applies only between private parties and not against the State.

D a promise by the Government may be enforced only if it is supported by consideration.

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