Delhi Judicial Service papers are Bare Act heavy. Prelims MCQs and Mains problems both reward section location, limitation periods, jurisdiction and procedure more than essay-style theory alone.
National core (every DJS candidate)
| Statute | Why it matters in Delhi courts |
|---|---|
| Constitution of India | Writ culture, fundamental rights, judicial power |
| Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 | Suits, interim relief, appeals, execution |
| Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 | Substantive offences (with IPC transition map) |
| Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 | Investigation, bail, trial, appeal |
| Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 | Evidence at trial |
| Indian Contract Act, 1872 | Commercial and general contracts |
| Specific Relief Act; Transfer of Property Act; Limitation Act; Partnership; Negotiable Instruments Act | Daily civil docket |
| Family law Bare Acts (Hindu / Muslim / Special Marriage) | Matrimonial and succession work |
Use the BNS–IPC comparison series when older materials still cite 302, 420 or 498A.
Delhi and commercial practice focus
Delhi’s subordinate courts see dense rent, property, commercial and criminal lists. Alongside the national core, candidates should track:
- Delhi Rent Control / tenancy frameworks as applicable after legislative change (read the Act named in the current syllabus annexure)
- Commercial Courts themes where the notice or practice directions matter for jurisdiction questions
- Local amendments to CPC practice noted in High Court rules
Always prefer the syllabus annexure of the year’s DJS notice over a generic “Delhi laws” list online.
How to read statutes for DJS
- Definitions and jurisdiction first in each code.
- Limitation and appeal periods as a separate drill.
- Illustration-based private defence, exceptions and CPC orders.
- Parallel BNS/BNSS/BSA numbering for post-2024 papers.
Related reading
Primary sources
- Bare Act texts; Delhi High Court DJS syllabus annexure