CS Inter Group I : General and Commercial Laws - June 2007
The facts in the given problem are based on the case of Anglo Danubian Co. v. Rogerson (1867) L R 4 Eg. 3.
Relief of cancellation under Section 31 of the Specific Relief Act, 1963, would be available when (i) an instrument is void or voidable against the plaintiff; (ii) where the plaintiff may apprehend serious injury if the instrument is left outstanding; and (iii) where it is proper under the circumstances of the case to grant the relief.
The party is relieved upon the principle, as it is technically called quia timetle., forfear that such agreement, securities deeds or other instruments may be vexatiously and injuriously used against him when the evidence to impeach them may be lost, or that they may throw a cloud of suspicion over his title or interest.
In the light of the provisions of Section 31 of the specific Relief Act, Ram may obtain cancellation of all the bills.