Judiciary

Meaning of Judiciary

The Judiciary is the branch of government that interprets laws, settles disputes, and ensures justice in the country.

It safeguards the Constitution and protects Fundamental Rights.

Structure of Judiciary in India

The Indian Judiciary has a three-tier system:

1. Supreme Court of India (Highest Court)
2. High Courts of India
3. District and Subordinate Courts

1. Supreme Court (Apex Court)

Composition

• Chief Justice of India + other judges
• [Unverified] Current sanctioned strength: 34 judges

Jurisdiction

1. Original Jurisdiction

• Disputes between:
  • Centre and States
  • State vs State

2. Appellate Jurisdiction

• Hears appeals from High Courts

3. Advisory Jurisdiction

• Gives advice to the President of India

Powers

• Guardian of the Constitution
• Can issue Writs:
  • Habeas Corpus
  • Mandamus
  • Prohibition
  • Certiorari
  • Quo Warranto

2. High Courts

Position

• Highest court at the State level

Functions

• Supervises subordinate courts
• Can issue writs
• Hears appeals from lower courts

3. Subordinate Courts

Types

• District Courts
• Sessions Courts
• Civil Courts
• Criminal Courts

Functions

• Handle civil and criminal cases at local level

Independence of Judiciary

Meaning

Judiciary works independently without interference from Legislature or Executive

How Independence is Maintained

• Security of tenure of judges
• Fixed salaries (cannot be reduced)
• Removal only through impeachment
• Separation of powers

Judicial Review

• Power of courts to declare laws unconstitutional
• Ensures supremacy of Constitution

Public Interest Litigation (PIL)

• Any person can approach court for public welfare issues
• Helps protect rights of weaker sections

Important Exam Points

• Supreme Court = Highest court of India
• Judiciary protects Fundamental Rights
• High Courts work at state level
• Writs are issued to enforce rights
• Judiciary is independent