Doctrine of Legitimate Expectation in Administrative Law: A Comparative Perspective — India, UK & EU
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53573/rhimrj.2026.v13n03.015Keywords:
Doctrine of Legitimate Expectation, legal certainty, proportionality, non-arbitrarinessAbstract
The doctrine of legitimate expectation has evolved into a significant constraint on administrative discretion in modern public law. Rooted in common-law principles of fairness and consistency, it now forms an integral part of administrative jurisprudence across multiple legal systems. This paper undertakes a comparative analysis of the doctrine as developed in the United Kingdom, the European Union, and India. It examines the conceptual foundations of legitimate expectation, including its relationship with the rule of law, legal certainty, proportionality, and non-arbitrariness. The study highlights the structured and influential UK framework, where courts recognise both procedural and substantive expectations, particularly in cases involving clear, unequivocal promises. The European Union adopts a more expansive approach, treating legitimate expectation as a core component of legal certainty and providing strong substantive protection in economic and regulatory contexts through the jurisprudence of the European Court of Justice. In contrast, India constitutionalises the doctrine under Article 14, grounding it in fairness and non-arbitrariness while displaying caution in enforcing substantive expectations, especially in matters concerning fiscal policy, taxation, and legislative change. The comparative study demonstrates that although the three jurisdictions diverge in methodology and remedial approaches, they converge on a central principle: public authorities must not frustrate expectations they have created without adequate justification grounded in public interest. The paper concludes that India’s model—while constitutionally robust—can benefit from greater doctrinal clarity, proportionality-based review, and improved transparency in policy formulation. The doctrine of legitimate expectation thus remains an essential tool for promoting administrative accountability and enhancing public trust in governance.
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