Contextual interpretation principles governing predefined statutory expressions

The general rule of statutory interpretation dictates that a defined term in a statute must consistently bear the meaning assigned to it in the definition clause wherever it appears in the enactment. The introductory phrase "unless the context otherwise requires" allows departure from the defined meaning only when applying the definition would lead to an absurd result or frustrate the statutory purpose. The context required to displace a statutory definition must arise directly from the text, structure, and object of the specific statutory provision itself. External factors, such as judicial perceptions regarding the status of the court that appointed the tribunal, do not constitute legal "context" under Section 2(1). Where the provision operates logically using the assigned statutory definition, courts must give full effect to the defined term. Therefore, the definition of "Court" in Section 2(1)(e) applies seamlessly to Section 29A without requiring any contextual deviation. (Jagdeep Chowgule v. Sheela Chowgule & Ors. | 2026 INSC 92)