Describe the structure and functions of the Supreme Court of India.

115 Oct 2024

Nikhil Kumar2 followers

The Supreme Court of India is the highest judicial authority in the country, established under Article 124 of the Constitution. It plays a pivotal role in interpreting the Constitution, safeguarding fundamental rights, and acting as the final court of appeal in legal matters. The Court has a dual function: ensuring justice is served in individual cases, and also overseeing the functioning of lower courts and government actions.

Major Points

The structure of the Supreme Court is defined by the Constitution, with the Chief Justice of India at the helm, followed by other judges. Its primary functions include judicial review, protecting fundamental rights, and providing final verdicts on disputes between the Union and States. It acts as the guardian of the Constitution and provides checks on the powers of the other branches of government.

Sub-major Topics

Structure of the Supreme Court: The Supreme Court consists of the Chief Justice of India and a set number of judges appointed by the President. The Chief Justice holds the highest position, and the judges are appointed based on seniority and merit.
Appointment of Judges: Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the President on the recommendation of the collegium, a body consisting of the Chief Justice and senior judges.
Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction. It can hear cases involving the interpretation of the Constitution, disputes between States and the Union, and other cases of national importance.
Functions of the Supreme Court: Its primary functions include interpreting laws, safeguarding the Constitution, upholding fundamental rights, and resolving disputes between states or between the Union and states.

Key Functions

The Supreme Court functions as the final arbiter on matters relating to the Constitution and the laws of India. It has the power to review laws, interpret constitutional provisions, and provide rulings on complex legal questions. It also has the authority to issue writs to safeguard the fundamental rights of citizens.

Sub-major Topics

Judicial Review: The Supreme Court has the power to review laws passed by Parliament to ensure they comply with the Constitution. If a law is found unconstitutional, it can be struck down.
Protection of Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court ensures the protection of the fundamental rights of citizens by issuing writs such as habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, and certiorari.
Appeals and Review: The Supreme Court hears appeals against judgments from High Courts and other lower courts. It also reviews cases of public importance and resolves disputes between various government bodies.
Constitutional Interpretation: The Court plays a critical role in interpreting and clarifying constitutional provisions, often in response to challenges that involve fundamental rights or the balance of power between government branches.

Key Questions and Answers

What is the role of the Chief Justice of India?
Answer: The Chief Justice of India is the head of the Supreme Court, presiding over its functions, and has the authority to allocate cases to other judges.
What are the primary functions of the Supreme Court?
Answer: The Supreme Court functions to interpret the Constitution, protect fundamental rights, resolve disputes between states and the Union, and act as a final appellate court.
How are judges of the Supreme Court appointed?
Answer: Judges are appointed by the President on the recommendation of the collegium, which consists of the Chief Justice of India and senior judges.
What is judicial review?
Answer: Judicial review is the power of the Supreme Court to evaluate laws passed by Parliament to ensure they are in accordance with the Constitution.

The Supreme Court of India, as the highest court in the country, serves a crucial role in maintaining constitutional governance and protecting the rule of law. Its powers and functions are designed to ensure justice is served impartially, safeguarding democracy and the rights of citizens.