Sarkari Data
JudiciaryPart V, Chapter IV (Articles 124–147)

Supreme Court of India

भारत का सर्वोच्च न्यायालय

Constitutional Citations:Article 124Article 129Article 131Article 136Article 141Article 142
Constitutional Definition

The apex judicial forum, final court of appeal under the Constitution of India, and the highest constitutional court with the power of judicial review.

Constitutional Purpose & Role in the Republic

To uphold the supremacy of the Constitution, enforce Fundamental Rights under Article 32, resolve disputes between federal units, and provide authoritative interpretations of law binding across all Indian courts.

Core Constitutional Responsibilities & Functions
1
Exercises exclusive Original Jurisdiction under Article 131 to adjudicate federal disputes between the Union and States or between States.
2
Enforces Fundamental Rights as the 'guarantor and protector' through prerogative writs (Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Quo Warranto, Certiorari) under Article 32.
3
Adjudicates appeals from High Courts in constitutional, civil, and criminal matters, and grants Special Leave Petitions under Article 136.
4
Delivers advisory opinions to the President of India on questions of law or public importance under Article 143.
5
Exercises plenary power under Article 142 to pass any order necessary for doing complete justice in any cause or matter.

Key Articles & Constitutional Provisions

Article 124: Establishment and Constitution

Constitutes the Supreme Court of India consisting of a Chief Justice and designated puisne judges appointed by the President.

Article 32: Constitutional Remedies

Guaranteed fundamental right to move the Supreme Court directly for the enforcement of Part III rights.

Article 141: Law of the Land

Declares that the law declared by the Supreme Court shall be binding on all courts within the territory of India.

Related Institutions & Check-and-Balance Organs

High Courts

Subordinate to the Supreme Court; bound by its precedents under Article 141

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President of India

Appoints judges of the Supreme Court

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Parliament of India

Can determine court strength and judges' conditions of service by law

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Associated Legal & Constitutional Doctrines

Judicial ReviewCourt of Record (Article 129)Precedent Binding across India (Article 141)Complete Justice (Article 142)Collegium System

Related Topics in Judiciary

All 16 Topics
High Courts of the StatesThe 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.
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