Time for performance of promise, when no application is to be made and no time is specified
Section 46 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872 deals with time for performance of promise, when no application is to be made and no time is specified. Where, by the contract, a promisor is to perform his promise without application by the promisee, and no time for performance is specified, the engagement must be performed within a reasonable time. The Act came into force on 01 Sep 1872.
Where, by the contract, a promisor is to perform his promise without application by the promisee, and no time for performance is specified, the engagement must be performed within a reasonable time.
Explanation.—The question "what is a reasonable time" is, in each particular case, a question of fact.
Section 46, The Indian Contract Act, 1872 (Act 9 of 1872).
Questions about Section 46
What does Section 46 of the Indian Contract Act deal with?
Section 46 of the Indian Contract Act is headed "Time for performance of promise, when no application is to be made and no time is specified". Where, by the contract, a promisor is to perform his promise without application by the promisee, and no time for performance is specified, the engagement must be performed within a reasonable time.
How do I find court cases under Section 46 of the Indian Contract Act?
In judgments and charge sheets this section is written several ways, and each form finds a different set of orders. These search the full text of every order eCourtsIndia holds, best matches first: Contract Act 46, section 46 Contract Act, section 46 of the Indian Contract Act. People searching for it also type contract act 1872 section 46. Each opens the full list of orders on eCourtsIndia, where it can be narrowed by court, year and outcome.
When did Section 46 of the Indian Contract Act come into force?
Section 46 of the Indian Contract Act, cited as Contract Act 46, came into force on 01 Sep 1872, having been enacted on 25 Apr 1872. It is in force as at the date shown on this page.
Other sections of this Act
- 73. Compensation for loss or damage caused by breach of contract1822 words
- 23. What considerations and objects are lawful, and what not596 words
- 74. Compensation for breach of contract where penalty stipulated for577 words
- 28. Agreements in restraint of legal proceeding void512 words
- 25. Agreement without consideration, void, unless it is in writing and registered, or is a promise to compensate for something done, or is a promise to pay a debt barred by limitation law423 words
- 16. "Undue influence" defined397 words
Source and method. Compiled from the enactments of Parliament and of the State legislatures as published on India Code, and republished together with commentary and other original matter under section 52(1)(q)(ii) of the Copyright Act, 1957. Structured, cross-referenced and maintained by eCourtsIndia. Text as in force on 15 Oct 2026. This page is not a substitute for legal advice.