Pari Materia

Literal Translation

On the same object.

Definition

The legal maxim is of latin origin meaning “of the same matter”. This maxim can be roughly understood as a reference used to indicate “same subject” or “similar context”. It is a term applicable on general laws, orders, or statutes enacted during different timelines but pertaining to the same matter or object. Since statutes or general laws in pari materia exist with a common purpose or comparable items or events that have to be studied in each other’s light.

Illustration

The laws of the hypothetical nation in the moot problem were “pari materia” to the Indian laws.

Case Law

KusumIngots & Alloys Ltd. v. Union of India & Anr. (2003)

Here, the hon'ble Supreme Court held that interpretation of statute in pari materia provisions by Supreme Court shall apply to identical statutes.