Question

Principle : Intentional application of force to another person is actionable in law.
Facts : 'P' and 'D' are unknown to each other. When 'P' is about to sit on a chair, 'D' intentionally pulls it away as a result of which 'P' falls on to the floor and is injured.

• A. 'D' is not liable as such jokes are common in the society.
• B. 'D' is not liable as 'P' is not seriously injured.
• C. 'D' is liable as he intentionally caused injury to 'P'.
• D. 'D' is not liable as the injury is not directly caused.

Answer 1

The correct option is D 'D' is not liable as the injury is not directly caused.

Criminal and Civil Law, 'battery' is He intentional touching of, or application of force to, the body of another person in a harmful or offensive manner (without consent). Three main elements are:
(1) intent (2) contact (3) Harm. In the given case "contact" is missing. The reasonable conclusion is drawn that D is not liable as the injury is not directly caused. Hence option (d) is correct.