Chapter III - Relations of Partners to One Another
Section 9
Section 9: General duties of partners
Partners must pursue the firm’s common advantage, deal faithfully and provide true accounts and information.
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Need advice on Section 9?
This article is for general information. Refer to the Indian Partnership Act, 1932 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
Partners are bound to carry on the business of the firm to the greatest common advantage, to be just and faithful to each other, and to render true accounts and full information of all things affecting the firm to any partner or his legal representative.
Introduction
Section 9 imposes duties to pursue the firm’s greatest common advantage, deal justly and faithfully, and give true accounts and full information.
The information duty extends to any partner or that partner’s legal representative.
Key takeaways
Good faith
Partners must be just and faithful to one another.
Accounts and information
A partner or legal representative can require true accounts and full information affecting the firm.
Operational checklist
Maintain complete books for firm transactions and make them available when a partner seeks an account.
Record material business decisions and promptly disclose facts that affect the firm.
Illustration
A partner handling customer receipts should record them in the firm books and disclose a material unpaid receivable when another partner asks for the firm’s position.
Check deed and state law
Review the partnership deed, the firm’s accounting practice and any applicable state amendment when applying these central partner duties.
Practical checklist
Do
- Keep accurate transaction records.
- Respond to partner requests with relevant business information.
Avoid
- Do not conceal a firm transaction or divert a firm opportunity while claiming to act for common advantage.
Frequently asked questions
Who can seek information?
Section 9 names any partner or the partner’s legal representative.
Is the duty limited to financial statements?
No. It extends to full information of all things affecting the firm.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026