{"id":34382,"date":"2026-10-19T06:16:03","date_gmt":"2026-10-19T06:16:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/?p=34382"},"modified":"2026-10-19T06:21:34","modified_gmt":"2026-10-19T06:21:34","slug":"understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Legislation as a Source of Law"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 id=\"h-introduction\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legislation is one of the most important sources of law. It is the process by which a competent law-making authority creates, amends, or repeals laws. In modern states, legislation serves as a primary source of legal rules because it produces clear, written, and enforceable norms.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Meaning_and_Definition_of_Legislation\" >Meaning and Definition of Legislation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Types_of_Legislation\" >Types of Legislation<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#A_Supreme_Legislation_Primary_Legislation\" >A. Supreme Legislation (Primary Legislation)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#B_Subordinate_or_Delegated_Legislation_Secondary_Legislation\" >B. Subordinate or Delegated Legislation (Secondary Legislation)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Principal_Forms_of_Subordinate_Legislation\" >Principal Forms of Subordinate Legislation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Rules\" >Rules<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Regulations\" >Regulations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Bye-laws\" >Bye-laws<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Orders\" >Orders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Notifications\" >Notifications<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Schemes\" >Schemes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Classification_of_Legislation\" >Classification of Legislation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Difference_Between_Primary_and_Secondary_Legislation\" >Difference Between Primary and Secondary Legislation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Delegated_Legislation\" >Delegated Legislation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Essential_Features_of_Legislation\" >Essential Features of Legislation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Process_of_Making_Legislation_in_India\" >Process of Making Legislation in India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Advantages_of_Legislation\" >Advantages of Legislation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Disadvantages_of_Legislation\" >Disadvantages of Legislation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Legislation_and_Other_Sources_of_Law\" >Legislation and Other Sources of Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Important_Case_Law_on_Legislation\" >Important Case Law on Legislation<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Kesavananda_Bharati_v_State_of_Kerala_1973\" >Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#In_re_Delhi_Laws_Act_1951\" >In re Delhi Laws Act (1951)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Minerva_Mills_Ltd_v_Union_of_India_1980\" >Minerva Mills Ltd. v. Union of India (1980)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Importance_of_Legislation_in_Modern_Society\" >Importance of Legislation in Modern Society<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to Salmond, \u201cLegislation is that source of law which consists in the declaration of legal rules by a competent authority.\u201d In simple terms, legislation is the formal declaration or making of legal rules by a legally authorised body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the Indian Parliament enacts an Act to regulate a particular activity, that Act becomes a source of law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-meaning-and-definition-of-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Meaning_and_Definition_of_Legislation\"><\/span>Meaning and Definition of Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legislation means laws made by a competent authority in accordance with the procedure prescribed by the Constitution or other governing law. The term is derived from the Latin words legis (law) and latum (to make or propose). In essence, legislation is the formal process of making law by an authorised law-making body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-types-of-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Legislation\"><\/span>Types of Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-a-supreme-legislation-primary-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_Supreme_Legislation_Primary_Legislation\"><\/span>A. Supreme Legislation (Primary Legislation)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Supreme legislation is enacted by the highest law-making authority within its constitutional powers. It is not subordinate to any ordinary legislative body, though it remains subject to the Constitution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> Laws passed by the Indian Parliament within its legislative competence, subject to the Constitution of India.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-b-subordinate-or-delegated-legislation-secondary-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"B_Subordinate_or_Delegated_Legislation_Secondary_Legislation\"><\/span>B. Subordinate or Delegated Legislation (Secondary Legislation)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Subordinate (or delegated) legislation is made by an authority other than the legislature under powers conferred by a parent (enabling) Act. It must remain strictly within the limits of that Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Secondary legislation consists of statutory instruments such as rules, regulations, orders, bye-laws, notifications, and schemes. It is also known as delegated, executive, subordinate, or subsidiary legislation. Its validity depends entirely on the parent Act, and it is subject to legislative scrutiny, procedural requirements (including publication), and judicial review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-principal-forms-of-subordinate-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Principal_Forms_of_Subordinate_Legislation\"><\/span>Principal Forms of Subordinate Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Principal forms of subordinate legislation include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-rules\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rules\"><\/span>Rules<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common form. Framed by the executive (Central or State Government) under express authority in the parent Act, usually dealing with procedural and administrative details required for implementation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> Income Tax Rules under the Income Tax Act; Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-regulations\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Regulations\"><\/span>Regulations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Generally made by statutory bodies, regulatory authorities, or autonomous institutions. They tend to be more technical and govern specialised fields or the internal functioning of the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> SEBI Regulations; RBI regulations\/directions; university regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-bye-laws\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bye-laws\"><\/span>Bye-laws<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Local laws made by municipal corporations, local authorities, panchayats, or other public bodies for matters of local concern such as sanitation, public health, building control, traffic, or markets. Their application is limited to the jurisdiction of the authority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> Municipal corporation bye-laws on construction or waste management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-orders\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Orders\"><\/span>Orders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Specific directions or determinations issued by the government or designated authorities under statutory power. They may give effect to particular provisions of the parent Act or regulate specific situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> Orders under the Essential Commodities Act; certain orders under disaster management laws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-notifications\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Notifications\"><\/span>Notifications<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Formal announcements published (usually in the Official Gazette) to bring statutory provisions into force, modify schedules, grant exemptions, declare areas, fix rates, or make other determinations authorised by the parent Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> GST rate notifications; notifications declaring eco-sensitive zones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-schemes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Schemes\"><\/span>Schemes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Detailed operational frameworks framed under statutory authority, often for implementing welfare, developmental, or administrative measures. They contain binding rules for the persons or activities they cover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> Schemes under social welfare or agricultural statutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-classification-of-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Classification_of_Legislation\"><\/span>Classification of Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Type<\/th><th>Meaning<\/th><th>Is It Subordinate Legislation?<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Colonial legislation<\/td><td>Laws made by a colonial authority for a colony.<\/td><td>Not necessarily; it depends on the authority and legal framework.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Executive legislation<\/td><td>Rules, regulations, and orders made by the executive.<\/td><td>Generally, yes, when made under powers delegated by a legislature.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Judicial legislation<\/td><td>Legal rules developed by courts through judicial decisions.<\/td><td>No; it is associated with judicial precedent.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Municipal legislation<\/td><td>Rules or bye-laws made by local authorities such as municipalities.<\/td><td>Yes, when made under powers delegated by an Act.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Autonomous legislation<\/td><td>Rules made by autonomous bodies (universities, professional bodies) under their legal powers.<\/td><td>It may be, depending on the source and nature of the powers.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quasi-legislation<\/td><td>Rules, guidelines, or other instruments made by authorities exercising quasi-legislative powers.<\/td><td>Often, but the term can also cover instruments that are not legally binding legislation.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-difference-between-primary-and-secondary-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Difference_Between_Primary_and_Secondary_Legislation\"><\/span>Difference Between Primary and Secondary Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Basis<\/th><th>Primary Legislation<\/th><th>Secondary Legislation<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Meaning<\/td><td>Law made directly by the legislature.<\/td><td>Law made by an authority under powers delegated by the legislature.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Other names<\/td><td>Principal or parent legislation.<\/td><td>Delegated, subordinate, subsidiary, or executive legislation.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Law-making authority<\/td><td>Parliament or a State Legislature in India.<\/td><td>Government ministers, departments, local authorities, or other authorised bodies.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Source of power<\/td><td>Derived from the Constitution.<\/td><td>Derived from powers conferred by primary legislation.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Purpose<\/td><td>Establishes the main legal principles, rights, duties, and framework.<\/td><td>Provides detailed rules and procedures to implement primary legislation.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Scope<\/td><td>Lays down the main provisions of the law.<\/td><td>Deals with details within the limits set by the parent Act.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Procedure<\/td><td>Follows the prescribed legislative process, including passage by the legislature and assent where required.<\/td><td>Follows the procedure specified in the parent Act (consultation, publication, or laying before the legislature).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Legislative control<\/td><td>Subject to constitutional limitations and judicial review.<\/td><td>Subject to the parent Act, constitutional limitations, and judicial review.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Amendment or repeal<\/td><td>Amended or repealed by the competent legislature through the prescribed procedure.<\/td><td>Usually amended or revoked by the authority empowered to make it, subject to the parent Act.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Examples in India<\/td><td>Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023; Consumer Protection Act, 2019.<\/td><td>Rules and regulations made under these Acts by authorised authorities.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Primary legislation establishes the main legal framework, whereas secondary legislation supplies the detailed rules needed to implement it. Secondary legislation must remain within the powers granted by the parent Act and cannot override it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-delegated-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Delegated_Legislation\"><\/span>Delegated Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Delegated legislation refers to laws, rules, regulations, orders, or bye-laws made by an authority under powers delegated to it by the legislature through a parent Act. It enables the legislature to lay down the main principles of a law while authorising the executive, local authorities, or statutory bodies to frame detailed rules for its implementation. It is also known as subordinate or subsidiary legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It must remain within the limits prescribed by the parent Act and the Constitution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> Parliament enacts an Act empowering the Central Government to frame rules for its implementation. The rules subsequently made by the Government under that Act constitute delegated legislation. Similarly, bye-laws made by a municipality under statutory authority are a form of delegated legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-essential-features-of-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Essential_Features_of_Legislation\"><\/span>Essential Features of Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Competent authority:<\/strong> It must be made by a body legally empowered to legislate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Written form:<\/strong> Legislation is generally expressed in writing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Established procedure:<\/strong> It must follow the prescribed constitutional or statutory process.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Binding force:<\/strong> Valid legislation is legally enforceable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Public application:<\/strong> It applies to the persons, activities, or situations it covers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Amendability and repeal:<\/strong> It can be changed or repealed through the prescribed legal process.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Constitutional validity:<\/strong> It must conform to the Constitution and remain within the authority\u2019s legal powers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-process-of-making-legislation-in-india\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Process_of_Making_Legislation_in_India\"><\/span>Process of Making Legislation in India<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ordinary process of enacting a parliamentary law includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Introduction of a Bill<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discussion and examination (including possible reference to a parliamentary committee)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Voting and passage in the House<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Approval by the other House (where required)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assent of the President<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publication and commencement<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Special procedures apply to Money Bills, state legislation, and certain other categories of Bills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-advantages-of-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Advantages_of_Legislation\"><\/span>Advantages of Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Certainty:<\/strong> Written laws make legal rules easy to identify and understand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clarity:<\/strong> Rights, duties, offences, and punishments can be defined with precision.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Social reform:<\/strong> Legislation can address social problems and promote equality.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uniformity:<\/strong> It establishes common rules within its territorial and legal scope.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flexibility for change:<\/strong> Laws can be amended to meet evolving social and economic needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Democratic legitimacy:<\/strong> Laws made by elected representatives can reflect public policy and needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Example:<\/strong> Laws prohibiting child marriage seek to protect children and advance social welfare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-disadvantages-of-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Disadvantages_of_Legislation\"><\/span>Disadvantages of Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Possibility of rigidity:<\/strong> Written rules may not cover every individual situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Political influence:<\/strong> Law-making may occasionally be affected by political considerations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Delay:<\/strong> Legislative procedures can be time-consuming.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dependence on interpretation:<\/strong> Unclear drafting may require judicial clarification.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Risk of misuse:<\/strong> Poorly framed laws may restrict rights or cause injustice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Frequent amendments:<\/strong> Excessive changes can create uncertainty.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Constitutional safeguards and judicial review help control these risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-legislation-and-other-sources-of-law\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legislation_and_Other_Sources_of_Law\"><\/span>Legislation and Other Sources of Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legislation coexists with other important sources of law:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Custom:<\/strong> Long-established practices recognised by law.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Precedent:<\/strong> Judicial decisions that bind or guide courts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Legislation:<\/strong> Formal written rules created by a competent authority.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legislation can modify or abolish customs and alter rules established by judicial decisions, subject to constitutional limits. Courts interpret legislation and examine its constitutional validity when properly challenged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-important-case-law-on-legislation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Case_Law_on_Legislation\"><\/span>Important Case Law on Legislation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-kesavananda-bharati-v-state-of-kerala-1973\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kesavananda_Bharati_v_State_of_Kerala_1973\"><\/span>Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court held that Parliament\u2019s power to amend the Constitution is not unlimited and cannot destroy its basic structure. The case demonstrates that legislative power remains subject to constitutional limitations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-in-re-delhi-laws-act-1951\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_re_Delhi_Laws_Act_1951\"><\/span>In re Delhi Laws Act (1951)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court examined the limits of delegated legislation and held that while the legislature may delegate details of implementation, it cannot abandon its essential legislative function.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-minerva-mills-ltd-v-union-of-india-1980\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Minerva_Mills_Ltd_v_Union_of_India_1980\"><\/span>Minerva Mills Ltd. v. Union of India (1980)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Court reaffirmed that limited amending power and judicial review form part of the basic structure. Parliament cannot use ordinary legislation or constitutional amendments to destroy the Constitution\u2019s foundational features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-importance-of-legislation-in-modern-society\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Importance_of_Legislation_in_Modern_Society\"><\/span>Importance of Legislation in Modern Society<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legislation regulates social, economic, political, and commercial life. It protects individual rights, maintains public order, creates governmental institutions, provides remedies for legal wrongs, and advances social justice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Consumer protection laws safeguard buyers; labour laws protect workers; environmental laws seek to prevent pollution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-conclusion\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legislation is a major and organised source of law in modern society. It supplies written rules, promotes legal certainty, and enables the State to respond to changing social needs. Yet legislative power is not absolute. Every law must conform to the Constitution, and the judiciary retains the power of constitutional review. Legislation is most effective when it is clear, fair, practical, and consistent with constitutional principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-related-links yoast-seo-related-links\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/doctrine-of-separation-of-powers\/\">Doctrine Of Separation Of Powers<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/delegated-legislation-in-india-key-judicial-pronouncements-doctrinal-evolution\/\">Delegated Legislation in India: Key Judicial Pronouncements and Doctrinal Evolution<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/judicial-control-delegated-legislation-india-ultra-vires-demonetisation\/\">Judicial Control of Delegated Legislation in India: Ultra Vires, Judicial Review &amp; the Demonetisation Case<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/functions-of-civil-courts-primary-and-secondary-courts\/\">Functions of Civil Courts: Primary and Secondary Courts<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/doctrine-of-checks-and-balances-a-comparative-study-of-the-usa-uk-and-india\/\">Doctrine of Checks and Balances: A Comparative Study of the USA, UK, and India<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction Legislation is one of the most important sources of law. It is the process by which a competent law-making authority creates, amends, or repeals laws. In modern states, legislation serves as a primary source of legal rules because it produces clear, written, and enforceable norms. According to Salmond, \u201cLegislation is that source of law<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"two_page_speed":[],"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[4505],"tags":[5252],"class_list":["post-34382","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","category-jurisprudence","tag-jurisprudence"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.6 (Yoast SEO v28.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Understanding Legislation as a Source of Law - Legal Service India - Articles<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Understand legislation in law, its meaning, types, features, delegated legislation, advantages, and important case laws in India.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Understanding Legislation as a Source of Law\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Understand legislation in law, its meaning, types, features, delegated legislation, advantages, and important case laws in India.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Legal Service India - Articles\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/legalservicesind\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-10-19T06:16:03+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-10-19T06:21:34+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Md. 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Imran Wahab\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"caption\":\"Md. Imran Wahab\"},\"description\":\"Md. Imran Wahab, a distinguished 2004-batch Indian Police Service officer, has dedicated over 32 years to public service, holding various senior managerial positions within the West Bengal Police force. His career has spanned diverse roles across different districts, including Kolkata Police, serving as DCP, 5th Battalion, Kolkata Armed Police and DCP (Port Division), for approximately 4 years. He served in Barrackpore Police Commissionerate, holding the positions of DCP (Special Branch) and DCP (Traffic) for over 4 years. He was posted in the districts of Dakshin Dinajpur and Nadia as Additional SP. At the sub-divisional level, he has worked as SDPOs of Gangarampur, Raghunathpur and Kalna sub-divisions of West Bengal. His tenure as Special IG and subsequently as IGP of Correctional Services, West Bengal, for over 4 years, saw him deeply engaged in improving the prison and correctional system. He visited numerous correctional homes across West Bengal, interacting with inmates, both male and female, including children residing with their incarcerated mothers. His outreach extended to correctional homes in Assam, Bihar, and Tripura. This hands-on approach provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of prisons and the complexities of the prisoner psyche. Beyond his operational roles, Md. Imran Wahab possesses a strong academic background, holding B.Sc., M.A., L.L.B., and M.B.A. degrees. He has also completed Post Graduate Diplomas in Human Rights, Project Management, Corporate Management, Computer Application, Public Administration, Medical Law, Disaster Management, Fire Safety &amp; Hazards Management and Psychology. He has attended Indian government sponsored specialized training in police and management matters in SVPNPA, Hyderabad, IIM, Ahmedabad and Singapore. He is the author of the books 'Police Investigation &amp; Allied Matters' and 'Alternative Dispute Resolution: Evolving Trends and Innovations' demonstrating his commitment to knowledge sharing within the law enforcement field. As an observer for the Election Commission of India, he has gained firsthand experience in conducting assembly elections and bye-elections in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, Bihar, and Tripura (twice). This exposure has given him a deep understanding of election management and the Election Commission's operations. He has also served as Chairman and as a member of various recruitment boards for the selection of police personnel in Kolkata Police and West Bengal Police. Md. Imran Wahab's interests extend beyond law enforcement to include law, politics, international affairs, prison management, and business management. He has authored over 1000 articles on these diverse topics, reflecting his intellectual curiosity and desire to contribute to public discourse. He is also a research scholar in law and has contributed articles to the Indian Police Journal, National Crime Record Bureau Journal, SVP National Police Academy Journal, and International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research etc. Currently, he serves as IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/author\\\/md-imranwahab\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Understanding Legislation as a Source of Law - Legal Service India - Articles","description":"Understand legislation in law, its meaning, types, features, delegated legislation, advantages, and important case laws in India.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Understanding Legislation as a Source of Law","og_description":"Understand legislation in law, its meaning, types, features, delegated legislation, advantages, and important case laws in India.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/understanding-legislation-as-a-source-of-law\/","og_site_name":"Legal Service India - Articles","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/legalservicesind","article_published_time":"2026-10-19T06:16:03+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-10-19T06:21:34+00:00","author":"Md. 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Imran Wahab","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","caption":"Md. Imran Wahab"},"description":"Md. Imran Wahab, a distinguished 2004-batch Indian Police Service officer, has dedicated over 32 years to public service, holding various senior managerial positions within the West Bengal Police force. His career has spanned diverse roles across different districts, including Kolkata Police, serving as DCP, 5th Battalion, Kolkata Armed Police and DCP (Port Division), for approximately 4 years. He served in Barrackpore Police Commissionerate, holding the positions of DCP (Special Branch) and DCP (Traffic) for over 4 years. He was posted in the districts of Dakshin Dinajpur and Nadia as Additional SP. At the sub-divisional level, he has worked as SDPOs of Gangarampur, Raghunathpur and Kalna sub-divisions of West Bengal. His tenure as Special IG and subsequently as IGP of Correctional Services, West Bengal, for over 4 years, saw him deeply engaged in improving the prison and correctional system. He visited numerous correctional homes across West Bengal, interacting with inmates, both male and female, including children residing with their incarcerated mothers. His outreach extended to correctional homes in Assam, Bihar, and Tripura. This hands-on approach provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of prisons and the complexities of the prisoner psyche. Beyond his operational roles, Md. Imran Wahab possesses a strong academic background, holding B.Sc., M.A., L.L.B., and M.B.A. degrees. He has also completed Post Graduate Diplomas in Human Rights, Project Management, Corporate Management, Computer Application, Public Administration, Medical Law, Disaster Management, Fire Safety &amp; Hazards Management and Psychology. He has attended Indian government sponsored specialized training in police and management matters in SVPNPA, Hyderabad, IIM, Ahmedabad and Singapore. He is the author of the books 'Police Investigation &amp; Allied Matters' and 'Alternative Dispute Resolution: Evolving Trends and Innovations' demonstrating his commitment to knowledge sharing within the law enforcement field. As an observer for the Election Commission of India, he has gained firsthand experience in conducting assembly elections and bye-elections in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, Bihar, and Tripura (twice). This exposure has given him a deep understanding of election management and the Election Commission's operations. He has also served as Chairman and as a member of various recruitment boards for the selection of police personnel in Kolkata Police and West Bengal Police. Md. Imran Wahab's interests extend beyond law enforcement to include law, politics, international affairs, prison management, and business management. He has authored over 1000 articles on these diverse topics, reflecting his intellectual curiosity and desire to contribute to public discourse. He is also a research scholar in law and has contributed articles to the Indian Police Journal, National Crime Record Bureau Journal, SVP National Police Academy Journal, and International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research etc. Currently, he serves as IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal.","url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/author\/md-imranwahab\/"}]}},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34382","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34382"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34382\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34382"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34382"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34382"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}