Understanding ‘Reference’ under Indian Law

Introduction to Reference in Law

In legal terminology, “Reference” refers to the act of referring a legal question from a subordinate court to a higher court—usually the High Court—for its authoritative decision. This mechanism ensures consistency in the interpretation and application of laws, especially when a case involves a substantial question of law.

The provision for Reference is found in Sections 113 and Order 46 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.

Legal Basis: Section 113 CPC

Text of the Law

Section 113 of the CPC states that if a court, in the course of a suit or appeal, encounters a question of law upon which it entertains doubt, and that question is vital to the disposal of the case, it may refer the issue to the High Court.

However, such reference is only possible under specific conditions, particularly when:

• The court is subordinate to the High Court.
• The issue concerns the validity of an Act, Ordinance, or Regulation.
• There is no binding precedent or clear law available.

Procedure of Making a Reference (Order 46 CPC)

Order 46 lays out the procedural rules for reference:

1. Form of Reference (Rule 1)

When a subordinate court makes a reference, it must:

• State the case.
• Formulate the legal question involved.
• Express its opinion on the matter.
• Submit the record to the High Court.

2. Hearing by High Court (Rule 2)

The High Court will then hear the case and issue its decision, which becomes binding on the referring court.

3. Reference by Criminal Courts

Though Section 113 and Order 46 CPC apply to civil matters, a similar concept exists under Sections 395–396 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) for criminal courts.

When Can a Reference Be Made?

A reference may be made in the following situations:

• Interpretation of a Constitutional Provision.
• Validity of a Statute (especially when its constitutionality is questioned).
• Conflicting Judgments by courts that need resolution.
• Lack of Precedent or ambiguous law.

Key Features of Reference in Law

• Discretionary: Reference is not mandatory; it depends on the discretion of the court.
• No Appeal: Reference is distinct from appeal or revision. It is not about challenging a decision but seeking guidance on a question of law.
• Binding Decision: The High Court’s opinion on the referred matter is binding on the lower court.

Importance of Reference in Indian Judicial System

Ensures Uniformity

Reference helps maintain uniformity in legal interpretations across different subordinate courts.

Prevents Miscarriage of Justice

By enabling subordinate courts to seek guidance, the reference mechanism reduces the risk of erroneous judgments.

Constitutional Compliance

When doubts arise regarding the constitutionality of a statute, reference to a High Court ensures compliance with constitutional mandates.

Case Laws Related to Reference

1. Ghulam Qadir v. Special Tribunal (2002)
   • Held that reference should only be made when the court is genuinely uncertain about the legal question.
2. Hari Vishnu Kamath v. Ahmad Ishaque (1955)
   • Emphasized that the court must clearly state the question of law and not merely refer facts.
3. Keshavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)
   • Demonstrated how important legal issues involving constitutional interpretation can be escalated through reference or appeals.

Difference Between Reference, Review, Revision, and Appeal

Legal Term	Purpose	Initiated By	Applicable Court	Can Be Rejected
Reference	Seeks clarification on a legal question	Subordinate Court	High Court	Yes
Review	Reconsideration of a decision	Same Court	Same Court	Yes
Revision	Correct jurisdictional errors	Party or Court	High Court	Yes
Appeal	Challenge to a decision	Aggrieved Party	Higher Court	No (unless time-barred)

Limitations of Reference

• Cannot be made frivolously; the question must be substantial.
• Only questions of law, not facts, can be referred.
• Requires prior permission in some cases under proviso to Section 113.