Q.A, without being asked, voluntarily saved B's shop from a fire, suffering minor burns in the process. B later promises, in gratitude, to pay A ₹5,000. Is B's promise enforceable?
(A) No, it is void for want of consideration, since A never asked to be paid
(B) Yes — this is a valid contract, because a promise to compensate a person who has already voluntarily done something for the promisor is a recognised exception under Section 25(2)
(C) No, the promise is voidable at B's option since A acted without instructions
(D) No, the promise is illegal because B was never legally bound to pay A anything

A's past voluntary act (saving the shop) at B's implied benefit, followed by B's promise to compensate it, is textbook Section 25(2).

Section 25(2) is precisely designed for this fact pattern: 'a promise to compensate, wholly or in part, a person who has already voluntarily done something for the promisor' is enforceable even without fresh consideration passing at the time of the promise.

Option-by-option analysis:

• (A) Incorrect — the fact that A did not ask for payment is exactly what makes this Section 25(2), not a reason to deny enforcement.
• (B) Correct — B's later promise to compensate A's past voluntary act is squarely covered by the Section 25(2) exception to 'no consideration, no contract.' …