Indian Contract Act, 1872
222. Agent to be indemnified against
consequences of lawful acts
The employer of an agent is bound to indemnify him against the
consequences of all lawful acts done by such agent in exercise of the authority
conferred upon him.
Illustrations
(a) B, at Singapore under instructions from A of Calcutta,
contracts with C to deliver certain goods to him. A does not send the goods to
B, and C sues B for breach of contract. B informs A of the suit, and A
authorizes him to defend the suit. B defends the suit, and is compelled to pay
damages and costs, and incurs expenses. A is liable to B for such damages,
costs and expenses.
(b) B, a broker at Calcutta, by the orders of A, a merchant
there, contracts with C for the purchase of 10 casks of oil for A. Afterwards A
refuses to receive the oil, and C sues B. B informs A, who repudiates the
contract altogether. B defends, but unsuccessfully, and has to pay damages and
costs and incurs expenses. A is liable to B for such damages, costs and expenses.