Understanding the Difference Between an Act and Rules: Can You Clarify This?

Difference Between an Act and the Rules

Kindly clarify what is the difference between an Act and the Rules.

Regards,
P. Satheesraja
Coimbatore

Act vs. Rules: Understanding the Differences

An Act is substantial law, while a Rule is procedural law. This means that an Act is something done by law or by force of law, regardless of whether the person executing it is willing or not. According to the General Clauses Act, the meaning of a Rule is "a rule made in exercise of a power conferred by any enactment, and shall include a regulation made as a rule under any enactment." This definition was provided by the Hon'ble Apex Court of India in the case titled Sukdev Singh vs. Bhagatram Sardar Singh – AIR 1975 SC 1331.

Difference Between an Act and the Rules

An Act is substantial law, and a Rule is procedural law. This means that an Act is something done by law or by force of law, whether the hand that does it is willing or not. According to the General Clauses Act, the meaning of a Rule is "a rule made in exercise of a power conferred by any enactment, and shall include a regulation made as a rule under any enactment." This was defined by the Hon'ble Apex Court of India in the case titled Sukdev Singh vs. Bhagatram Sardar Singh – AIR 1975 SC 1331.