Strict Liability
Liability without fault � a person is held liable for harm caused by their activity regardless of whether they were negligent.
Full Definition
Strict liability imposes legal responsibility without the need to prove negligence or intent. The defendant is liable simply because harm resulted from their activity. The classic case: Rylands v. Fletcher (1868) � 'whoever keeps anything likely to do mischief, is liable for all the natural consequences if it escapes.' Defences: act of God, act of third party, plaintiff's consent, plaintiff's default. In India, strict liability was replaced by absolute liability for hazardous industries.
In Indian Law
Rylands v. Fletcher applies in India for non-hazardous dangerous activities. For hazardous industries (chemicals, mining, etc.), the Supreme Court in M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) created 'absolute liability' � no exceptions or defences apply. Under the Public Liability Insurance Act 1991, compensation for hazardous substance accidents is available without proving negligence.
Landmark Cases
M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) � Absolute liability doctrine