Ignorantia Facti Excusat and Ignorantia Juris Non Excusat | Law Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Ignorantia Facti Excusat

• The legal concept of "Ignorantia Facti Excusat" states that ignorance of fact can serve as a defense in certain situations.
• Explanation: This principle implies that individuals may be excused for their actions if they can prove that they were unaware of crucial facts at the time.
• Example: For instance, if a driver unintentionally hits a pedestrian who suddenly appears on the road, the driver might use this defense to argue that they were not aware of the pedestrian's presence.

Relevant Laws and Case Studies

In legal contexts, such as the Indian Penal Code, case law like Chiranji vs. State illustrates the application of this principle.

Chiranji vs. State Case

In this case, Chiranji, in a state of temporary insanity, mistook his son for a tiger and accidentally caused harm. The court found him not guilty based on his genuine belief that he was not committing a wrongful act.

Application in Different Legal Areas

Similarly, the principle of "Ignorantia Facti Excusat" is applicable in contract law, as seen in cases like State of Orissa v. Khora Ghasi, where mistakes of fact can render contracts void.

Application in Indian Legal System

• Indian Penal Code: The legal system in India, influenced by British law, generally upholds the principle. However, there have been exceptions where mistake of law has been acknowledged by the courts.
• Case Example: In the case of Mohammad Ali v. Sri Ram Swarup, the court ruled that ignorance of the law, even if genuine, cannot serve as a defense. It may, however, be considered in certain situations.
• Sections 76 and 79 of IPC: These sections protect individuals who make mistakes of fact in good faith but do not offer the same protection for mistakes of law.
• Illustrative Instance: A person caught without a train ticket cannot claim ignorance of the law and will be penalized under the relevant statute.

Contracts

Tort Law

• Explanation: Tort law deals with harm caused by one person to another or their property, encompassing various defenses like consent and contributory negligence.
• Relevance of Ignorance of Law: The principles of Ignorantia Facti Excusat and Ignorantia Juris Non Excusat are pivotal in understanding and applying defenses in tort law cases.

Conclusion

In the Indian legal system, the doctrines of Ignorantia Facti Excusat and Ignorantia Juris Non Excusat hold significance. These doctrines serve as legal defenses, allowing individuals to defend their actions if committed in good faith and under the genuine belief that they are following the law. While a mistake of fact is generally accepted as a valid defense, it's important to note that in India, a mistake of law is not considered a valid defense.