WorldAugust 15, 2026

fetter

FET-er

Definition

A restriction, restraint, or impediment that prevents someone from exercising their rights or acting freely.

Etymology

Originating from the Old English word 'feter', it historically referred to a chain or shackle used to restrain a person or animal's feet.

In the news

The Calcutta High Court ruled that a self-executing default clause acts as an impermissible fetter on access to justice by preventing an assessee from appealing a tax decision.

Self Executing Default Clause Creates Impermissible Fetter On Access To Justice: Calcutta HC Rules ITAT Cannot Impose Costs Condition Precedent For Adjudication of Appeal

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