Keywords To Remember
Judiciary – The branch of government responsible for interpreting laws and delivering justice.
Supreme Court – The highest judicial authority in India, which acts as the final court of appeal and protector of the Constitution.
High Court – The highest court in a state that deals with constitutional and legal matters within that state.
Subordinate Courts – The courts that work under High Courts, including district and session courts, dealing with civil and criminal cases.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) – The head of the Supreme Court and the highest-ranking judge in the Indian judicial system.
Constitution – The supreme law of India that outlines the framework of governance and fundamental rights.
Judicial Review – The power of the judiciary to examine the constitutionality of laws and executive orders.
Writs – Legal orders issued by courts to enforce fundamental rights (like Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Certiorari, Prohibition, Quo Warranto).
Appeal – A legal process in which a higher court is asked to review the decision of a lower court.
Jurisdiction – The authority given to a court to hear and decide cases.
Original Jurisdiction – The power of the Supreme Court to hear cases for the first time, especially disputes between states or between the Centre and a state.
Appellate Jurisdiction – The authority of the court to hear appeals from lower courts.
Advisory Jurisdiction – The power of the Supreme Court to give advice to the President of India on legal matters.
Fundamental Rights – The basic rights guaranteed by the Constitution to all Indian citizens, protected by the judiciary.
Impeachment – The process by which a judge (or other high official) can be removed from office for proven misconduct.
Independent Judiciary – A system where the judiciary is free from influence or control by the executive or legislature.
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) – A legal action initiated in a court for the protection of public interest.
Rule of Law – The principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable to law.
Bench – A term used to refer to a judge or a group of judges sitting in a court.
Verdict – The decision or judgment given by a court.
Trial – The formal process of examining evidence in a court to decide guilt or innocence.
Civil Case – A legal dispute between two or more parties seeking compensation or resolution, not involving criminal charges.
Criminal Case – A case in which a person is tried for actions considered offenses against society or the state.
Bar – The community or profession of lawyers authorized to practice law.
Tribunal – A quasi-judicial body set up to deal with specific types of disputes, like tax or administrative matters.
Legal Aid – The provision of free legal services to those who cannot afford a lawyer.
Contempt of Court – An offense of showing disrespect or disobedience to the court or its orders.
Separation of Powers – The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent abuse of power.
Precedent – A legal decision that serves as an example or rule for future similar cases.
Case Law – Law established by judicial decisions in earlier cases, also known as judicial precedent.
Something to Know
Tick (✔️) the correct option.
- The Lok Adalat is generally presided over by—
(a) a sitting judge
(b) retired judge
(c) District Collector
(d) judge of the district court
Answer – (b) retired judge
- Who among the following does not work under the Board of Revenue?
(a) Collector
(b) Tehsildar
(c) Metropolitan Magistrate
(d) Commissioner
Answer – (c) Metropolitan Magistrate
- A judge of the Supreme Court may continue to remain in office till the attainment of—
(a) 62 years
(b) 63 years
(c) 64 years
(d) 65 years
Answer – (d) 65 years
- Which one of the following statements about Public Interest Litigation is false?
(a) It was devised by the Supreme Court of India.
(b) It has proved to be a boon for the upper middle class people of India.
(c) It has brought legal aid to many poor, illiterate and ignorant Indians.
(d) PIL is related to matters of urgent public importance.
Answer – (b) It has proved to be a boon for the upper middle class people of India.
- Which case related to the following subjects is a civil case?
(a) marriage
(b) robbery
(c) murder
(d) cheating
Answer – (a) marriage
B. Fill in the blanks.
- The highest Revenue Court in the district is the _________ which deals with the cases of land revenue.
Answer – Collectorate
- Any law declared_________, immediately ceases to remain in force.
Answer – unconstitutional
- The criminal cases begin with the lodging of a _________ _________ _________ .
Answer – First Information Report (FIR)
- Legal cases can be either _________ or criminal in nature.
Answer – civil
- The _________ Court is the guardian of the Indian Constitution.
Answer – Supreme
C. Write True or False for the following statements.
- Tax evasion is a crime.
Answer – True
- The judges of the High Court are appointed by the Chief Justice of India.
Answer – False
(They are appointed by the President of India, in consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the Governor of the respective state.)
- The Court of the Sessions Judge is the highest Civil Court in a district.
Answer – False
(The Court of the District Judge is the highest Civil Court, while the Sessions Judge handles criminal cases.)
- The High Court has the power of Judicial Review.
Answer – True
- Subordinate Courts are equally competent to interpret the Constitution of India.
Answer – False
(Only the High Courts and the Supreme Court have the power to interpret the Constitution.)
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- What is meant by independence of judiciary? Give any two examples to prove that Indian Judiciary is independent.
Answer – Independence of judiciary means that the judiciary is free from the influence of the executive and legislature and can make decisions without any pressure.
Examples:
Judges are appointed for a fixed tenure and cannot be removed easily.
The judiciary has the power to declare any law passed by the legislature unconstitutional through Judicial Review.
- Differentiate between civil and criminal cases with the help of examples.
Answer – Civil cases are related to disputes between individuals or organizations regarding rights, property, or contracts.
Example: Disputes over land, divorce, or breach of contract.
Criminal cases are related to crimes that harm society and are punishable by law.
Example: Theft, murder, or assault.
- Describe the composition of Criminal Courts and Revenue Courts.
Answer – Criminal Courts: These include the Sessions Court, Chief Judicial Magistrate’s Court, and Magistrate’s Court, dealing with offences like theft, assault, and murder.
Revenue Courts: These include the Collector, Tehsildar, and Board of Revenue, which handle disputes related to land revenue and property.
- What qualifications are required to be a judge of the Supreme Court? How can a judge of the Supreme Court be removed?
Answer – Qualifications:
Must be a citizen of India.
Must have been a High Court judge for at least 5 years, or an advocate in a High Court for 10 years, or a distinguished jurist.
Removal:
A Supreme Court judge can be removed by the President on the basis of proven misbehaviour or incapacity, through an impeachment process by the Parliament.
- ‘India has a single unified and integrated judicial system.’ Explain.
Answer – India’s judiciary is called unified and integrated because all courts in the country function under a single system, with the Supreme Court at the top, followed by High Courts and Subordinate Courts.
All courts follow the same set of laws and procedures, and there is a provision for appeals from lower courts to higher courts.
E. Answer the following questions.
- Briefly describe any five powers and functions of the Supreme Court of India.
Answer – The Supreme Court of India is the highest judicial authority and performs the following powers and functions:
Constitutional Interpretation: It interprets the Constitution and ensures its supremacy.
Judicial Review: It has the power to declare laws passed by the legislature or actions of the executive as unconstitutional.
Appellate Jurisdiction: It hears appeals against decisions of High Courts in civil, criminal, and constitutional cases.
Original Jurisdiction: It settles disputes between the Union and States or between two or more states.
Guardian of Fundamental Rights: It protects citizens’ fundamental rights and can issue writs for their enforcement.
- Explain the main powers and functions of the High Courts.
Answer – The High Courts are the highest courts at the state level. Their main powers and functions are:
Original Jurisdiction: In certain matters such as wills, divorce, and company laws, High Courts have the authority to hear the case directly.
Appellate Jurisdiction: They hear appeals from lower courts in both civil and criminal cases.
Writ Jurisdiction: High Courts can issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights.
Supervisory Role: They supervise and control the functioning of subordinate courts in the state.
Judicial Review: They can declare any state law or order unconstitutional if it violates the Constitution.
- State the significance of Public Interest Litigation in the Indian judicial system.
Answer – Public Interest Litigation (PIL) allows any citizen or group to approach the court for the protection of public interest, especially for the poor, illiterate, and socially disadvantaged.
Significance:
Makes justice accessible to all sections of society.
Helps in addressing issues like environmental protection, human rights, corruption, etc.
Acts as a check on the misuse of power by public authorities.
Promotes judicial activism.
- Explain the concept of Lok Adalats? Why are they called People’s Courts?
Answer – Lok Adalats are informal courts where disputes are settled amicably through mutual consent without going through a lengthy court procedure.
They are called People’s Courts because:
They provide speedy, low-cost, and accessible justice.
No court fee is charged, and procedures are simple.
Both parties agree to the decision, ensuring no appeal.
They are especially beneficial for the poor and illiterate.
- Describe the composition of the High Court. Explain the qualifications, tenure and the method of removal of the High Court judges.
Answer – Composition:
A High Court consists of a Chief Justice and other judges as appointed by the President.
The number of judges varies according to the workload of the court.
Qualifications:
Must be a citizen of India.
Must have been an advocate of a High Court for at least 10 years or a judicial officer for 10 years.
Tenure:
High Court judges retire at the age of 62 years.
Removal:
A High Court judge can be removed by the President on grounds of proven misbehaviour or incapacity, after an impeachment process by the Parliament, similar to that of a Supreme Court judge.
Value Based Question
According to the recent report published in Hindustan Times, Andhra Pradesh is facing drought like situation as the underground water level has decreased alarmingly in many of its districts. People are facing water scarcity in those areas.
1- What can the citizens do to draw the attention of the Court to the problem of water scarcity?
Answer – Citizens can file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the High Court or the Supreme Court to draw the judiciary’s attention to the issue of water scarcity. They can also:
Organize awareness campaigns to highlight the problem.
Approach legal aid cells or NGOs for help in filing a PIL.
Submit petitions and complaints to the local administration and judicial authorities demanding immediate action.
This way, the court can direct the government to take necessary steps for water conservation and supply.
- Why is water conservation considered as the need of the hour? Explain.
Answer – Water conservation is crucial because:
Freshwater resources are limited and rapidly depleting due to overuse and pollution.
Underground water levels are falling, especially in drought-prone regions.
Water is essential for drinking, agriculture, sanitation, and industrial use.
It helps ensure sustainability for future generations.
Conserving water reduces the burden on government infrastructure and prevents conflicts over water sharing.
Thus, responsible use and conservation of water are necessary to secure life and livelihood.
(Map Skill)
On an outline political map of India, mark and name the following—
(a) The place where the first Lok Adalat was held. — Delhi
(b) The place where Punjab and Haryana High Court is located. — Chandigarh
(c) The three North-Eastern States where High Courts have been set-up. — Manipur, Tripura and Meghalaya
Answer – (a) Delhi – The place where the first Lok Adalat was held.
(b) Chandigarh – The location of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
(c) Three North-Eastern States where High Courts have been set up:
Manipur – Imphal
Tripura – Agartala
Meghalaya – Shillong
Something To Do
- Collect any three real life stories to support the statement that ‘Justice delayed is justice denied.’ Discuss them in the class.
Answer – a. 37-Year-Old Corruption Case – Ahluwalia’s AcquittalIn a case spanning over three decades, Ahluwalia was acquitted after being framed by the CBI in 1987. The prolonged trial, involving 327 witnesses, highlighted the severe delays in the justice system, leading to the judge’s remark: “Justice delayed is justice denied.”
The Times of India
- Browse the internet and find out some instances of cases which the High Courts have transferred to themselves from the Lower Courts.
Answer – Student will do this at their own.
- Explore yourself—The mid-day meals provided in schools were the result of a Public Interest Litigation. Find out the details as to who filed the PIL and how it led to the decision of providing mid-day meals.
Answer – Student will do this at their own.
Additional Questions and Answers – 01
Fill in the Blanks:
- The Supreme Court of India is located in __________________.
Answer– New Delhi
- The __________________ Court is known as the Guardian of the Constitution.
Answer– Supreme
- The __________________ appoints the judges of the Supreme Court.
Answer– President
- The subordinate courts work under the supervision of the __________________.
Answer– High Court
- The Supreme Court was established in the year __________________.
Answer– 1950
- Public Interest Litigation is also known as __________________.
Answer– PIL
- The __________________ is the highest court in a district.
Answer– District Court
- __________________ courts deal with disputes related to land revenue.
Answer– Revenue
- The decision of the Supreme Court is __________________ on all lower courts.
Answer– binding
- A __________________ is an order by a court to a public authority to perform a duty.
Answer– writ
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Who is the current head of the Indian Judiciary?
(a) Prime Minister
(b) President
(c) Chief Justice of India
(d) Attorney General
Answer– (c) Chief Justice of India
- Which of these courts is the highest judicial authority in India?
(a) High Court
(b) Lok Adalat
(c) Supreme Court
(d) Sessions Court
Answer– (c) Supreme Court
- The concept of Public Interest Litigation was introduced by—
(a) Parliament
(b) High Court
(c) Supreme Court
(d) Law Commission
Answer– (c) Supreme Court
- Which court hears appeals from High Courts?
(a) Subordinate Court
(b) Sessions Court
(c) Supreme Court
(d) Civil Court
Answer– (c) Supreme Court
- The retirement age of a High Court judge is—
(a) 58
(b) 60
(c) 62
(d) 65
Answer– (c) 62
True or False:
- The President of India is the final interpreter of the Constitution.
Answer– False
- High Courts can issue writs to protect Fundamental Rights.
Answer– True
- Revenue courts deal with criminal cases.
Answer– False
- A person must be a citizen of India to become a Supreme Court judge.
Answer– True
- Lok Adalats are formal courts of law.
Answer– False
Competency-Based Questions:
- Ravi’s land was taken by a company without proper compensation. He cannot afford a lawyer. What legal tool can help him get justice?
Answer– Ravi can file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the High Court or Supreme Court, which is an affordable and accessible way to seek justice in matters of public concern.
- Meera’s electricity connection was disconnected wrongfully. Which type of case should she file and in which court?
Answer– Meera should file a civil case in the District Court or the appropriate civil court.
High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS):
- Why is judicial independence essential for a democracy like India?
Answer– Judicial independence ensures that judges can make decisions free from political pressure or influence, thus upholding justice, protecting rights, and maintaining the rule of law in a democracy.
- How has Public Interest Litigation changed the relationship between the common man and the judiciary in India?
Answer– PIL has empowered even the poorest and illiterate citizens to approach the courts for justice on issues affecting the public, making the judiciary more accessible and responsive to societal problems.
Short Answer Questions:
- What is the main function of the judiciary?
Answer– The judiciary interprets laws, protects rights, resolves disputes, and ensures justice.
- What are subordinate courts?
Answer– Subordinate courts are lower courts that function under the control and supervision of High Courts in the states.
- What is the term of office for a judge of the Supreme Court?
Answer– A judge of the Supreme Court retires at the age of 65.
- Name the three levels of the judiciary in India.
Answer– Supreme Court, High Courts, and Subordinate Courts.
Long Answer Questions:
- Describe the structure of the Indian judiciary.
Answer– The Indian judiciary has a three-tier structure:
The Supreme Court at the top (national level)
High Courts at the state level
Subordinate Courts at the district and lower levels
This system ensures justice at various levels and allows for appeals and reviews.
- Explain the process of appointment and removal of a judge of the Supreme Court.
Answer– A judge of the Supreme Court is appointed by the President of India in consultation with the Chief Justice of India and senior judges. A judge can only be removed by impeachment on grounds of proven misbehavior or incapacity, passed by a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament.
- What are Lok Adalats? How do they help in delivering justice?
Answer– Lok Adalats are informal courts aimed at settling disputes through compromise. They reduce the burden on regular courts and provide speedy and inexpensive justice. They are especially useful for civil disputes and minor criminal cases.
- Explain how the Indian judiciary protects the Fundamental Rights of citizens.
Answer– The judiciary protects Fundamental Rights by allowing citizens to approach High Courts or the Supreme Court through writ petitions. It can declare laws null and void if they violate these rights, and order authorities to take corrective actions.
Additional Questions and Answer – 02
Fill in the Blanks Questions and Answers
- The judiciary is the ________ organ of the Union Government.
Answer: third
- The judiciary resolves disputes and is the final ________ of the Constitution.
Answer: interpreter
- The independence of the judiciary ensures it is free from influence by the ________ and legislature.
Answer: executive
- Civil cases relate to disputes over ________, marriage, or money.
Answer: property
- Criminal cases begin with the lodging of an ________ (First Information Report).
Answer: FIR
- The ________ Court is the highest judicial authority in India.
Answer: Supreme
- The Supreme Court was established on ________ 26, 1950.
Answer: January
- The Supreme Court comprises a Chief Justice and a maximum of ________ other judges.
Answer: 31
- Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the ________ of India.
Answer: President
- The Supreme Court judges retire at the age of ________ years.
Answer: 65
- The salary of the Chief Justice of India is ________ lakhs per month.
Answer: 2.8
- The Supreme Court exercises ________ jurisdiction in disputes between the Union and States.
Answer: original
- The Supreme Court’s ________ jurisdiction allows it to hear appeals from High Courts.
Answer: appellate
- The ________ Court supervises all Subordinate Courts in a state.
Answer: High
- High Court judges retire at the age of ________ years.
Answer: 62
- The salary of a High Court Chief Justice is ________ lakhs per month.
Answer: 2.5
- The highest civil court in a district is the ________ Court.
Answer: District
- The highest criminal court in a district is the court of the ________ Judge.
Answer: Sessions
- The highest revenue court in a district is the ________ of Revenue.
Answer: Board
- The first Lok Adalat was held in ________ in 1985.
Answer: Delhi
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Answers
- Which is the third organ of the Union Government?
- a) Legislature
- b) Executive
- c) Judiciary
- d) Parliament
Answer: c) Judiciary
- What is the judiciary’s role in a federal government?
- a) Making laws
- b) Enforcing laws
- c) Resolving disputes and interpreting the Constitution
- d) Appointing ministers
Answer: c) Resolving disputes and interpreting the Constitution
- What ensures the independence of the judiciary?
- a) Executive control
- b) Legislative oversight
- c) Constitutional provisions
- d) Public opinion
Answer: c) Constitutional provisions
- Which type of case involves disputes over property or marriage?
- a) Criminal
- b) Civil
- c) Constitutional
- d) Revenue
Answer: b) Civil
- What is required to start a criminal case?
- a) Public Interest Litigation
- b) First Information Report (FIR)
- c) Judicial Review
- d) Appeal
Answer: b) First Information Report (FIR)
- Which court is the highest judicial authority in India?
- a) High Court
- b) District Court
- c) Supreme Court
- d) Sessions Court
Answer: c) Supreme Court
- When was the Supreme Court established?
- a) January 26, 1947
- b) January 26, 1950
- c) August 15, 1947
- d) August 15, 1950
Answer: b) January 26, 1950
- What is the maximum number of Supreme Court judges, including the Chief Justice?
- a) 25
- b) 31
- c) 32
- d) 34
Answer: b) 31
- Who appoints Supreme Court judges?
- a) Prime Minister
- b) President
- c) Chief Justice
- d) Parliament
Answer: b) President
- At what age do Supreme Court judges retire?
- a) 61
- b) 65
- c) 67
- d) 70
Answer: b) 65
- What is the monthly salary of the Chief Justice of India?
- a) ₹2.5 lakhs
- b) ₹2.8 lakhs
- c) ₹3.0 lakhs
- d) ₹3.5 lakhs
Answer: b) ₹2.8 lakhs
- Which jurisdiction allows the Supreme Court to hear disputes between states?
- a) Appellate
- b) Advisory
- c) Original
- d) Supervisory
Answer: c) Original
- Which jurisdiction involves appeals from High Courts?
- a) Original
- b) Appellate
- c) Advisory
- d) Supervisory
Answer: b) Appellate
- Which court supervises Subordinate Courts in a state?
- a) Supreme Court
- b) High Court
- c) District Court
- d) Sessions Court
Answer: b) High Court
- At what age do High Court judges retire?
- a) 60
- b) 62
- c) 65
- d) 68
Answer: b) 62
- What is the monthly salary of a High Court Chief Justice?
- a) ₹2.25 lakhs
- b) ₹2.5 lakhs
- c) ₹2.8 lakhs
- d) ₹3.0 lakhs
Answer: b) ₹2.5 lakhs
- Which is the highest civil court in a district?
- a) Sessions Court
- b) District Court
- c) Munsif Court
- d) Revenue Court
Answer: b) District Court
- Which is the highest criminal court in a district?
- a) District Court
- b) Sessions Court
- c) Magistrate Court
- d) Revenue Court
Answer: b) Sessions Court
- What is the highest revenue court in a district?
- a) Board of Revenue
- b) Collector Court
- c) Tehsildar Court
- d) Commissioner Court
Answer: a) Board of Revenue
- What is the purpose of Lok Adalats?
- a) To delay justice
- b) To provide speedy and inexpensive justice
- c) To increase litigation costs
- d) To replace High Courts
Answer: b) To provide speedy and inexpensive justice
True/False Questions and Answers
- The judiciary is the third organ of the Union Government.
Answer: True
- The judiciary only makes laws, not resolves disputes.
Answer: False (It resolves disputes and interprets the Constitution.)
- The judiciary’s independence is ensured by constitutional provisions.
Answer: True
- Civil cases involve offences like robbery and murder.
Answer: False (They involve disputes over property, marriage, etc.)
- An FIR is required to start a criminal case.
Answer: True
- The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in India.
Answer: True
- The Supreme Court was established on August 15, 1947.
Answer: False (Established on January 26, 1950.)
- The Supreme Court can have a maximum of 31 judges, including the Chief Justice.
Answer: True
- Supreme Court judges are appointed by the Prime Minister.
Answer: False (Appointed by the President.)
- Supreme Court judges retire at 62 years.
Answer: False (Retire at 65.)
- The Chief Justice of India earns ₹2.8 lakhs per month.
Answer: True
- The Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction includes disputes between states.
Answer: True
- The Supreme Court’s advisory opinions are binding on the President.
Answer: False (Not binding.)
- High Courts supervise Subordinate Courts in their states.
Answer: True
- High Court judges retire at 65 years.
Answer: False (Retire at 62.)
- The salary of a High Court Chief Justice is ₹2.5 lakhs per month.
Answer: True
- The District Court is the highest civil court in a district.
Answer: True
- The Sessions Court is the highest criminal court in a district.
Answer: True
- Lok Adalats were first held in Mumbai in 1985.
Answer: False (First held in Delhi.)
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL) is only for the rich and literate.
Answer: False (It helps the poor and illiterate.)
Competency-Based Questions and Answers
- Question: Imagine you are a legal researcher studying the independence of India’s judiciary. How would you use constitutional provisions and judicial appointment records to evaluate its effectiveness?
Answer: As a legal researcher, I would analyze constitutional provisions like Articles 124 and 217, which ensure judicial independence through qualifications-based appointments, fixed tenure, and impeachment processes, as the text details. Appointment records, such as the collegium system’s role in selecting Supreme Court judges, as 2019 elevations show, reflect merit-based selections, as NJAC debates confirm. I would examine salary protections (e.g., ₹2.8 lakhs for CJI) and impeachment rarity, as no judge removals note, to assess insulation from executive/legislative pressure. By cross-referencing with rulings like Kesavananda Bharati (1973), I would conclude that these provisions effectively safeguard judicial impartiality, fostering public trust, though collegium transparency, as critiques suggest, requires reform to enhance accountability.
- Question: Evaluate the role of the Supreme Court’s judicial review power in protecting constitutional values using landmark cases and legislative records.
Answer: The Supreme Court’s judicial review power, under Article 13, protects constitutional values by nullifying laws violating the Constitution, as the text and landmark cases show. Cases like Kesavananda Bharati (1973), establishing the basic structure doctrine, and Minerva Mills (1980), striking down excessive amendments, as court records note, ensure legislative accountability, as Ambedkar’s debates envisioned. Legislative records, such as the 42nd Amendment’s rollback post-1977, reflect judicial influence. By analyzing these sources, I would conclude that judicial review safeguards Fundamental Rights and federalism, maintaining constitutional supremacy, though overuse, as NJAC case critiques indicate, risks judicial overreach, requiring balanced application to uphold democratic governance.
- Question: Design a research plan to study the impact of Lok Adalats on access to justice using case settlement data and judicial reports.
Answer: Research Plan:
– Objective: To analyze the impact of Lok Adalats on access to justice.
– Sources: Collect case settlement data from National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) reports (1985-2025) and judicial reports on pendency, alongside the text’s Lok Adalat details.
– Methodology: Examine settlement rates, as 1985 Delhi’s 150-case resolution notes, to assess speed and cost-effectiveness. Analyze pendency reduction in Subordinate Courts, as NALSA data reflect, and cross-reference with Justice P.N. Bhagwati’s advocacy for accessibility. Survey litigant feedback for satisfaction.
– Expected Outcome: The study will show that Lok Adalats, as compromise-based forums, enhance access for the poor, as settlement data confirm, but limited awareness, as rural reports note, requires outreach to maximize their equitable impact.
- Question: How would you use Public Interest Litigation (PIL) cases to explain the judiciary’s role in addressing social inequalities?
Answer: PIL cases, as the text and court records show, illustrate the judiciary’s role in addressing social inequalities by enabling public-spirited individuals to seek justice for marginalized groups, as Article 32 empowers. Cases like Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997), establishing workplace harassment guidelines, and Bandhua Mukti Morcha (1984), freeing bonded laborers, as rulings note, tackle systemic issues, aligning with Ambedkar’s justice vision. By analyzing PILs on issues like unsafe transport or child exploitation, as the text suggests, I would conclude that PILs empower the poor and illiterate, reducing inequality, as case outcomes reflect. However, frivolous PILs, as court critiques note, require stricter screening to maintain judicial focus, ensuring equitable justice.
- Question: Assess the significance of the integrated judicial system in ensuring uniform justice across India using constitutional provisions and court hierarchies.
Answer: The integrated judicial system, under Articles 124-147 and 214-231, ensures uniform justice through a hierarchical structure, as the text and court records show. The Supreme Court, High Courts, and Subordinate Courts, as the flowchart details, create a cohesive framework, with Supreme Court rulings binding all courts, as Article 141 mandates. High Courts’ supervision of District and Sessions Courts, as case transfer records note, standardizes justice, as Ambedkar’s debates envisioned. By analyzing appeal data, like High Court reversals, I would conclude that this system ensures consistency, protecting rights nationwide, though pendency, as NALSA reports indicate, requires faster case disposal to maintain equitable access to justice.
High Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions and Answers
- Question: Why is the independence of the judiciary fundamental to India’s democracy, and how do constitutional safeguards ensure its impartiality?
Answer: The judiciary’s independence, as Articles 124-147 and the text show, is fundamental to India’s democracy by ensuring impartial dispute resolution and constitutional protection, as Ambedkar’s debates envisioned. Safeguards like qualifications-based appointments, as collegium records note, fixed tenure (65 for Supreme Court, 62 for High Courts), and high impeachment thresholds, as no-removal cases confirm, insulate judges from executive/legislative pressure. Salary protections (₹2.8 lakhs for CJI), as the text details, prevent financial influence. Landmark rulings like SP Gupta v. Union of India (1981) affirm these safeguards, fostering public trust. However, collegium opacity, as NJAC critiques suggest, requires transparency reforms to sustain impartiality, ensuring democratic checks, as judicial outcomes reflect.
- Question: Analyze the Supreme Court’s role as the guardian of the Constitution and its impact on maintaining federal balance.
Answer: The Supreme Court, as guardian of the Constitution under Article 13, ensures its supremacy through judicial review and interpretation, as the text and cases show. Rulings like Kesavananda Bharati (1973), establishing the basic structure doctrine, and SR Bommai (1994), upholding federalism, as court records note, protect constitutional provisions, as Ambedkar’s vision confirms. By resolving Union-State disputes, as inter-state water cases reflect, it maintains federal balance, as Article 131’s original jurisdiction details. Its impact lies in preventing legislative overreach, though judicial activism, as NJAC case critiques indicate, risks federal tensions. By balancing central and state powers, it sustains cooperative federalism, requiring restrained review, as debates suggest.
- Question: Evaluate the significance of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in democratizing access to justice and its challenges in implementation.
Answer: PIL, as devised under Article 32 and the text, democratizes justice by allowing public-spirited individuals to address societal wrongs, as Vishaka (1997) and Bandhua Mukti Morcha (1984) rulings show, empowering the poor, as Ambedkar’s equity vision notes. Its significance lies in tackling systemic issues like child exploitation, as PIL case data reflect, reducing inequality. Challenges include frivolous filings, as court backlogs note, and judicial capacity strain, as pendency reports confirm. By enabling legal aid, PIL strengthens democracy, though stricter guidelines, as Supreme Court directives suggest, are needed to prevent misuse, ensuring focused justice delivery, as case outcomes indicate.
- Question: How does the Supreme Court’s appellate jurisdiction contribute to uniform justice, and what are its limitations in addressing case backlogs?
Answer: The Supreme Court’s appellate jurisdiction, under Article 132-136, ensures uniform justice by reviewing High Court decisions, as the text and case records show. Rulings like Maneka Gandhi (1978), expanding rights, standardize interpretations, as Article 141’s binding precedent mandates, aligning with Ambedkar’s justice vision. Appeals in constitutional, civil, and criminal cases, as death sentence reviews note, correct errors, ensuring equity. Limitations include backlog, with over 70,000 pending cases (2023 reports), delaying justice, as NALSA data confirm. By unifying judicial standards, appellate jurisdiction strengthens consistency, but pendency, as critiques suggest, requires fast-track mechanisms and Lok Adalat expansion to enhance access, as case disposal trends indicate.
- Question: Assess the role of Lok Adalats in addressing judicial pendency and their impact on India’s justice delivery system.
Answer: Lok Adalats, as the text and NALSA reports show, address judicial pendency by providing speedy, compromise-based resolutions, as 1985 Delhi’s 150-case settlement notes, aligning with Justice P.N. Bhagwati’s vision. Their impact lies in reducing backlog, with millions settled annually, as 2023 data reflect, and lowering costs for the poor, as litigant feedback confirms. Supervised by retired judges, as the text details, they simplify procedures, enhancing access, as Gram Panchayat parallels suggest. Limitations include limited awareness in rural areas, as reports note, and non-binding outcomes in complex cases, as legal analyses indicate. By easing court burdens, Lok Adalats strengthen justice delivery, requiring outreach and scope expansion, as NALSA suggests, for broader impact.
Short Questions and Answers
- Question: What is the third organ of the Union Government?
Answer: Judiciary.
- Question: What is the judiciary’s role in a federal government?
Answer: Resolves disputes and interprets the Constitution.
- Question: What ensures the judiciary’s independence?
Answer: Constitutional provisions.
- Question: What type of case involves property disputes?
Answer: Civil.
- Question: What starts a criminal case?
Answer: FIR.
- Question: Which is India’s highest court?
Answer: Supreme Court.
- Question: When was the Supreme Court established?
Answer: January 26, 1950.
- Question: How many judges can the Supreme Court have?
Answer: 31.
- Question: Who appoints Supreme Court judges?
Answer: President.
- Question: At what age do Supreme Court judges retire?
Answer: 65.
- Question: What is the Chief Justice of India’s salary?
Answer: ₹2.8 lakhs per month.
- Question: Which jurisdiction covers Union-State disputes?
Answer: Original.
- Question: Which jurisdiction involves High Court appeals?
Answer: Appellate.
- Question: Which court supervises Subordinate Courts?
Answer: High Court.
- Question: At what age do High Court judges retire?
Answer: 62.
- Question: What is a High Court Chief Justice’s salary?
Answer: ₹2.5 lakhs per month.
- Question: What is the highest civil court in a district?
Answer: District Court.
- Question: What is the highest criminal court in a district?
Answer: Sessions Court.
- Question: Where was the first Lok Adalat held?
Answer: Delhi.
- Question: What is the purpose of Public Interest Litigation?
Answer: To help the poor and illiterate seek justice.
Long Questions and Answers
- Question: Discuss the importance of an independent judiciary in India’s democracy and the constitutional provisions that ensure its impartiality.
Answer: An independent judiciary, as Articles 124-147 and the text show, is crucial for India’s democracy by ensuring impartial dispute resolution, protecting Fundamental Rights, and upholding constitutional supremacy, as Ambedkar’s debates envisioned. Constitutional provisions like qualifications-based appointments (Article 124), fixed tenure (65 for Supreme Court, 62 for High Courts), and impeachment by special majority, as no-removal cases note, insulate judges, as the text details. Salary protections (₹2.8 lakhs for CJI, ₹2.5 lakhs for High Court CJ), as Article 125 specifies, and ban on post-retirement practice in same courts prevent influence, as collegium records confirm. Landmark rulings like SP Gupta (1981) affirm these safeguards, fostering public trust. However, collegium opacity, as NJAC critiques suggest, requires transparency to sustain impartiality, ensuring democratic checks, as judicial outcomes reflect.
- Question: Explain the powers and functions of the Supreme Court and its role in safeguarding Fundamental Rights and the Constitution.
Answer: The Supreme Court, under Articles 13, 32, and 131-136, exercises original, appellate, advisory, and supervisory jurisdictions, as the text details, safeguarding Fundamental Rights and the Constitution, as Kesavananda Bharati (1973) shows. Original jurisdiction resolves Union-State disputes, as water-sharing cases note, while appellate jurisdiction reviews High Court decisions, as Maneka Gandhi (1978) reflects, ensuring rights protection. Advisory jurisdiction offers non-binding opinions, as Article 143 details, and supervisory jurisdiction oversees lower courts, as case transfers confirm. Judicial review nullifies unconstitutional laws, as Minerva Mills (1980) illustrates, protecting rights, as Article 13 mandates. As a Court of Record, its precedents bind lower courts, as Article 141 notes. By guarding the Constitution, as Ambedkar envisioned, it ensures democratic balance, though backlog, as 2023 pendency data suggest, requires efficiency reforms.
- Question: Analyze the role of High Courts in India’s judicial system and their contribution to justice delivery at the state level.
Answer: High Courts, under Articles 214-231, are integral to India’s integrated judicial system, supervising Subordinate Courts and delivering justice at the state level, as the text and case records show. Their appellate jurisdiction reviews civil and criminal cases from District and Sessions Courts, as appeal data note, ensuring fairness, as Ambedkar’s vision confirms. Limited original jurisdiction covers Fundamental Rights violations and election disputes, as Article 226 reflects, while judicial review nullifies unconstitutional state laws, as case rulings show. Supervisory jurisdiction, as case transfers indicate, standardizes lower court functioning, and as Courts of Record, their precedents guide, as Article 227 details. With 24 High Courts for 29 states, as Chandigarh’s shared court notes, they enhance access, though pendency, as NALSA reports suggest, requires faster disposal to strengthen state-level justice.
- Question: Evaluate the significance of Lok Adalats and Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in making justice accessible to the common man.
Answer: Lok Adalats and PIL, as the text and judicial records show, significantly enhance justice accessibility for the common man, aligning with Justice P.N. Bhagwati’s vision. Lok Adalats, since 1985 Delhi’s 150-case resolution, settle disputes through compromise, reducing costs and pendency, as NALSA’s millions of settlements (2023) confirm, benefiting the poor, as litigant feedback notes. PIL, under Article 32, enables public-spirited actions, as Vishaka (1997) and Bandhua Mukti Morcha (1984) rulings reflect, addressing inequalities like child exploitation, as case data show. Both democratize justice, though Lok Adalats’ limited scope in complex cases and PIL’s frivolous filings, as court critiques note, require expanded outreach and stricter screening, ensuring equitable access, as NALSA and court outcomes suggest.
- Question: Discuss the structure and functioning of Subordinate Courts and their role in grassroots justice delivery.
Answer: Subordinate Courts, under High Court supervision as per Articles 233-237 and the text, include District, Sessions, and Revenue Courts, delivering grassroots justice, as case records show. District Courts, the highest civil courts, handle property and family disputes, as filing data note, while Sessions Courts, the top criminal courts, try serious offences, as conviction records reflect. Revenue Courts, led by the Board of Revenue, resolve land disputes, as appeal data confirm. Munsif and Magistrate Courts address smaller cases, as the text details, ensuring local access, as Ambedkar’s justice vision envisioned. Lok Adalats supplement by settling disputes quickly, as NALSA data show. Their role lies in proximity and affordability, though pendency and resource constraints, as 2023 reports note, require judicial reforms to enhance grassroots equity.