Ms. Geeta Dinesh Wadekar, LL.M., DES Shri. Navalmal Firodia Law College, Pune
ABSTRACT
"In the intricate dance between justice and law lies the cornerstone principle of legality, where every word in statute carries the weight of interpretation, shaping the very fabric of our legal landscape." Originating in Roman law, it gained prominence during the Enlightenment era with the rise of legal positivism. This principle ensures that laws are clear, predictable, and consistent, safeguarding individuals against arbitrary government actions. The principle of legality remains a fundamental aspect of legal systems worldwide. However, its application may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific legal issues at hand. Courts continue to grapple with questions of how to interpret statutes in accordance with legislative intent while also upholding the rule of law. The principle of legality holds that individuals should only be punished for conduct that is clearly prohibited by law, ensuring fairness, predictability, and the rule of law. Statutory interpretation involves courts interpreting statutes to determine their meaning and application, often relying on legislative intent, text, context, and precedent to resolve ambiguity and apply the law effectively in specific cases. The research problem aims to explore the intricacies of statutory interpretation within the framework of the principle of legality, examining how judicial application of legal principles navigates the tension between legislative intent and constitutional constraints. the principle of legality posits that statutory interpretation relies on a presumption that lawmakers intend to adhere to legal principles, ensuring consistency and predictability in judicial decision making. A potential reform of the principle of legality and statutory interpretation involves establishing clearer guidelines and criteria for judicial discretion, ensuring greater consistency and predictability in legal outcomes. The objective of the principle of legality and statutory interpretation is to ensure that laws are consistently applied and understood within the framework of legal norms and principles, facilitating fair and just outcomes in legal proceedings.
Keywords: Statutory Interpretation, Principle of Legality, Legislative History, Judicial Activism, Rule of Law.
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