A statute in India refers to a formal written law enacted by the legislative branch of government, either the Parliament at the central level or the State Legislature at the state level. Statutes, also known as acts or legislation, are the primary source of law and govern various aspects of public and private life, including criminal offenses, civil rights, property rights, taxation, commerce, and governance. Statutes are enacted through a prescribed legislative process, which involves drafting, introduction, debate, amendment, and enactment by the legislature. Once enacted, statutes become binding legal obligations enforceable by courts, government agencies, and law enforcement authorities. Statutory laws in India must comply with constitutional principles, including fundamental rights, separation of powers, and federalism. Statutes are subject to interpretation and application by courts, which ensure their consistency with constitutional provisions and judicial precedents. Statutory interpretation involves analyzing the language, purpose, context, and legislative history of a statute to ascertain the legislature’s intent and give effect to its provisions. Statutes play a central role in shaping the legal framework, regulating conduct, resolving disputes, and promoting social order and justice in a democratic society.