How is the Indian judiciary organized?

Introduction

The Indian judiciary is a complex and hierarchical system designed to interpret and uphold the laws of the country. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens.

Structure of the Indian Judiciary

The Indian judiciary is organized into several levels, each with distinct functions and jurisdictions.

Supreme Court of India

The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in India. It has the power of judicial review and can overrule the decisions of lower courts. The Supreme Court consists of the Chief Justice of India and a maximum of 33 other judges.

High Courts

Each state in India has a High Court, which serves as the highest court in that state. High Courts have jurisdiction over both civil and criminal matters and have the power to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights.

Subordinate Courts

Subordinate courts are categorized into district courts and lower courts, including:

• District Courts: These courts handle serious criminal cases and significant civil disputes.
• Civil Courts: They deal with civil matters like property disputes and family law cases.
• Criminal Courts: They handle criminal cases and are divided into sessions courts and magistrate courts.

Functions of the Indian Judiciary

The judiciary in India performs several key functions, including:

1. Judicial Review: The power to review the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions.
2. Interpretation of Laws: The judiciary interprets and applies laws to specific cases.
3. Protection of Fundamental Rights: Ensuring that the fundamental rights of citizens are protected against infringement.

Conclusion

The organization of the Indian judiciary ensures a structured and efficient legal system capable of addressing a wide range of legal issues. It plays a pivotal role in upholding the principles of justice and democracy in India.