GK Question

polity medium fill_blank

The doctrine of laches in administrative law allows courts to dismiss writ petitions if there is ______ delay in filing without sufficient cause, causing prejudice to public interest or third parties.

  1. reasonable
  2. unreasonable
  3. statutory
  4. minimal

Answer: unreasonable

Doctrine of laches: Equitable principle that courts may refuse relief if petitioner delays unreasonably in approaching court, causing: (a) Prejudice to respondent (e.g., evidence lost, witnesses unavailable), (b) Disruption of public administration (e.g., settled policies, completed projects), (c) Unfair advantage to petitioner. Not rigid rule; courts balance: nature of right violated, reason for delay, public interest. Ensures timely enforcement of rights while preventing abuse of judicial process.

Topic Administrative Law - Doctrine of Laches
Exam Relevance Writ petition procedural principle frequently asked in UPSC and Judiciary exams