Sarkari Data
JudiciaryPart VI, Chapter V (Articles 214–231)

High Courts of the States

राज्यों के उच्च न्यायालय

Constitutional Citations:Article 214Article 215Article 226Article 227
Constitutional Definition

The principal civil and criminal courts of original and appellate jurisdiction in each State and Union Territory, serving as the senior constitutional judicial bodies below the Supreme Court.

Constitutional Purpose & Role in the Republic

To administer justice within their territorial jurisdiction, adjudicate appeals from district and subordinate judiciaries, issue prerogative writs under Article 226, and superintend all subordinate tribunals.

Core Constitutional Responsibilities & Functions
1
Issues prerogative writs (Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Certiorari, Prohibition, Quo Warranto) under Article 226 for fundamental rights and any other legal purpose.
2
Exercises judicial superintendence over all subordinate district courts, taluka courts, and tribunals across the state under Article 227.
3
Operates as a Court of Record under Article 215 with powers to punish for contempt of itself.
4
Adjudicates civil and criminal appeals, revisions, and constitutional challenges to state enactments.

Key Articles & Constitutional Provisions

Article 214: High Courts for States

Mandates that there shall be a High Court for each State, with provision for common High Courts for two or more States (e.g. Bombay High Court, Punjab & Haryana High Court).

Article 226: Writ Jurisdiction

Empowers High Courts to issue writs not only for the enforcement of fundamental rights but also 'for any other purpose', giving it wider textual scope than Article 32.

Article 235: Control over Subordinate Courts

Vests administrative control, postings, promotions, and disciplinary oversight of subordinate judicial officers in the High Court.

Related Institutions & Check-and-Balance Organs

Supreme Court of India

Appellate forum above the High Courts

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District & Sessions Courts

Judicially and administratively superintended by the High Court

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State Governors

Consulted during judge appointments and administers judges' oath

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Associated Legal & Constitutional Doctrines

Writ Jurisdiction (Article 226)Superintendence (Article 227)Subordinate Judicial Control (Article 235)Integrated Single Judicial Hierarchy