Rule of Ejusdem Generis

Where there are general words following particular and specific words, the general words following the particular words must be confined to things of same kind as those specified, unless there is a clear manifestation of a contrary purpose.

To apply the rule, the following conditions must exist:-

• The statute contains an enumeration by specific words.
• The members of the enumeration constitute a class.
• The class is not exhausted by the enumeration.
• A general term follows the enumeration.
• There is a distinct genus which comprises more than one species.
• There is no clearly manifested intent that the general term be given a broader meaning that the doctrine requires.

In Kochunni v. State of Madras, it was observed: The Rule of Ejusdem Generis is that when general words follows particular and specific words of the same nature, the general words must be confined to the things of the same kind as those specified. But it is clearly laid down by decided cases that the specific words of the same nature. It is not an unavoidable rule of law, but is only a permissible inference in the absence of an indication to the contrary.