JUDICIARY

Some of the key powers of the Supreme Court as enshrined in the Indian Constitution are as follows:

1. Judicial Review: The Supreme Court has the power of judicial review, which allows it to examine the constitutionality of laws, executive orders, and government actions. It can declare any law or action that violates the Constitution as null and void.

2. Original Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court has original jurisdiction in certain cases, which means it can hear disputes directly, without these cases being heard by any other lower court first. Article 131 of the Constitution confers original jurisdiction on the Supreme Court in matters involving disputes between the Government of India and one or more states or between different states.

3. Appellate Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court serves as the highest appellate court in India. It hears appeals against the judgments of High Courts and other lower courts in both civil and criminal cases. Under Article 132 to 136, the Supreme Court exercises its appellate jurisdiction in various matters.

4. Writ Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court can issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. These writs include Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Certiorari, Prohibition, and Quo Warranto.

5. Advisory Jurisdiction: The President of India can seek the opinion of the Supreme Court on any question of law or public importance under Article 143 of the Constitution. Although the advice given by the Court is not binding, it holds considerable significance.

6. Contempt of Court: The Supreme Court has the power to punish for contempt of court, both civil and criminal contempt. Contempt of court refers to any action that disrespects or obstructs the functioning of the court, its orders, or its officers.

7. Interpretation of the Constitution: The Supreme Court plays a crucial role in interpreting the provisions of the Constitution. Its interpretations serve as precedents for lower courts, shaping the development of constitutional law in the country.

8. Appointment of Judges: While the President of India officially appoints judges, the Supreme Court plays a significant role in the appointment process. The Court's Collegium system recommends the appointment and transfer of judges in the higher judiciary.

9. Protection of Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court acts as a guardian of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. It ensures that these rights are not violated by the government or any other authority, and it can provide remedies to individuals whose rights have been infringed.

The High Courts in India are the highest judicial authorities at the state and union territory level. They possess several powers and functions that play a vital role in the administration of justice within their respective jurisdictions. Some of the key powers of High Courts are as follows:

1. Appellate Jurisdiction: High Courts have the authority to hear appeals against the judgments and orders of subordinate courts within their territorial jurisdiction. They act as the highest appellate courts for cases arising from district courts and other lower courts in the state or union territory.

2. Writ Jurisdiction: High Courts can issue writs to protect the fundamental rights of individuals enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The five types of writs - Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Certiorari, Prohibition, and Quo Warranto - are utilized to ensure that the actions of government authorities are not arbitrary and that citizens' rights are safeguarded.

3. Original Jurisdiction: High Courts possess original jurisdiction to hear certain types of cases directly without going through any lower courts. For example, cases involving disputes between the state and the central government, or disputes between states within the same country, can be directly filed in the High Court.

4. Supervisory Jurisdiction: High Courts have the power of superintendence and control over the subordinate courts within their jurisdiction. They can issue directions, guidelines, and instructions to ensure proper functioning and discipline among the lower judiciary.

5. Judicial Review: Like the Supreme Court, High Courts also possess the power of judicial review. They can examine the constitutionality and legality of laws, executive actions, and government policies to ensure they are in conformity with the provisions of the Constitution.

6. Contempt of Court: High Courts can take action against individuals or entities for contempt of court, similar to the powers of the Supreme Court. Contempt proceedings can be civil or criminal in nature and aim to maintain the dignity and authority of the court.

7. Settlement of Disputes: High Courts can mediate and resolve disputes between private individuals, organizations, or entities within their jurisdiction. This includes civil and commercial disputes that may arise between parties.

8. Administrative Functions: High Courts play an important role in the administration of the judicial system within their respective states or union territories. They are responsible for appointing and transferring judges in subordinate courts, overseeing the functioning of these courts, and managing their budgets and administrative matters.