Res Judicata
/rɛz dʒuːdɪˈkɑːtə/
Latin Legal Doctrine
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Definition
Thing adjudged — matter finally decided cannot be relitigated.
Jurisdiction: InternationalEtymology
Latin: res 'thing/matter' + judicata 'judged'. Principle preventing re-litigation of settled matters.
Examples
Case Study
In Satyadhyan Ghosal v. Deorajin Debi (1960), the Supreme Court of India clarified the scope of res judicata under Section 11 CPC, holding that the doctrine applies not only to points actually decided but also to all points that could have been raised and decided. This principle of 'constructive res judicata' was extended: parties must raise all related claims in one suit or lose them forever.
Key Cases
Satyadhyan Ghosal v. Deorajin Debi
1960AIR 1960 SC 941
Established constructive res judicata in India — not just what was decided, but what could have been raised and decided. Section 11 Explanation IV CPC. Prevents parties from splitting their case.
View on Indian Kanoon →Workmen of Cochin Port Trust v. Board of Trustees
1978AIR 1978 SC 1283
Extended res judicata to quasi-judicial proceedings and administrative tribunals, not just civil courts.
View on Indian Kanoon →