Question:easy

A, an 18-year-old adult of sound mind, executes a written instrument in favour of B stating, “I promise to pay B ₹ 75,000 on 1st April next year.” A is fully competent, has signed the note, and the instrument contains all essential elements of a promissory note. B sues A for recovery after 1st April when A defaults. Examine the correct legal position.

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Age of Majority = 18! Once you turn 18, you are fully responsible for your contracts. Also, remember: Promissory notes don't need witness signatures to be legally enforceable!
Updated On: Jun 8, 2026
  • The promissory note is voidable at A's option since A is only 18 years of age.
  • The promissory note is void because it does not mention the consideration.
  • The promissory note is valid; A is liable to pay B.
  • The promissory note is valid only if a third party signs as witness.
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Spot the two laws here.
A is 18 years old, of sound mind, and has signed a promissory note. Two laws matter: the Indian Majority Act, 1875 (who is an adult) and the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 (rules for a promissory note).

Step 2: Is A old enough to be bound.
Under the Indian Majority Act, a person becomes a major at 18. So an 18-year-old of sound mind is fully competent to enter a contract. A is not a minor, so the note is not voidable for age.

Step 3: Does the note need to state consideration.
A promissory note does not have to mention consideration on its face. The law already presumes that a negotiable instrument was made for consideration. So the note is not void just because the reason for payment is not written.

Step 4: Is a witness needed.
A promissory note between the maker and the payee does not need a third-party witness to be valid. The maker's own signature on a clear promise to pay a fixed sum is enough.

Step 5: Eliminate the wrong options.
Voidable because A is 18 - wrong, 18 is an adult. Void for not mentioning consideration - wrong, consideration is presumed. Valid only with a witness - wrong, no witness is required.

Step 6: Reach the answer.
The note has all the essentials, made by a competent adult, so A must pay B.
\[ \boxed{\text{The promissory note is valid; A is liable to pay B.}} \]
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