Criticism Of The Golden Rule Of Interpretation Of Statutes

Manuj Gautam, B.A. LL.B., Noida International University

ABSTRACT

In order to avoid contradictions, ambiguity, or ludicrous results when interpreting statutes, the Golden Rule of interpretation deviates from the rigid literal rule.one of the first to explore this principle was Lord Wensleydale, who emphasized that laws should be followed as long as doing so doesn't lead to inconsistencies or ambiguity. The Golden Rule of Interpretation should be used, however, if applying a statute's exact wording results in an interpretation that is confusing or irrational and does not serve the law's intended purpose. Here, the terms "vague" or "inconsistent" refer to the court's belief that a specific interpretation leads to outcomes that fall short of the law's intended objective. In some circumstances, the court has the discretion to depart from the precise meaning in order to protect justice. Giving the words in statutes their literal meaning is the first step in the interpretation process. If applying this literal interpretation results in ludicrous results, the interpretation is changed to better assist the administration of justice or to reflect the genuine intent of the statute.