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In the intricate web of contractual agreements, the concept of free consent emerges as a linchpin, essential for the validity and integrity of any accord. It embodies the voluntary and genuine agreement of parties involved, ensuring that no coercion or manipulation taints the transaction.
Consensus-ad-Idem
At the heart of free consent lies the principle of consensus-ad-idem, or a meeting of minds. This means that all parties must agree to the same thing in the same sense and at the same time.
For instance, when Suresh offers to sell his Maruti 800 to Narain for Rs 1 lakh, and Narain accepts under the same understanding, a consensus-ad-idem is established, forming the foundation of a valid contract.
The Essence of Freedom
Beyond mere agreement, free consent entails the exercise of autonomy and self-determination.
Eleanor Roosevelt's timeless assertion, "Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent," resonates deeply here. It highlights the importance of individuals retaining control over their decisions and refusing to yield to external pressures or undue influence.
Guarding Against Coercion and Fraud
Sophocles' moral maxim, "Rather fail with honour than succeed by fraud," underscores the ethical dimension of consent. It emphasises the importance of integrity and honesty in contractual dealings.
In legal terms, consent must be free from coercion, undue influence, fraud, misrepresentation, or mistake. Any form of manipulation or deceit renders the contract voidable, subject to the option of the aggrieved party.
What Defines Free Consent?
An integral aspect of a legally binding agreement is the presence of free consent between the involved parties. This assertion encompasses two fundamental components:
1. Firstly, there must exist consent, wherein all parties concerned agree to the same terms, in the same context, and simultaneously (Section 13). This entails the concept of 'consensus-ad-idem'.
2. Secondly, the consent regarding the agreement's terms must be voluntary (Section 14). In other words, this consent should not be coerced or influenced by any of the following means (the presence of which would render the contract voidable, though not void):
(i) Coercion,
(ii) Undue influence,
(iii) Fraud,
(iv) Misrepresentation, or
(v) Mistake.
In simpler terms, if it can be demonstrated that consent was obtained through any of the aforementioned means, the contract would be deemed voidable (not void) automatically. However, this declaration would be at the discretion of the party whose consent was compromised in such a manner.
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