The Supreme Court of India: A Comprehensive Overview

The Supreme Court of India

The Supreme Court of India, established on January 28, 1950, is the apex judicial body in the country and plays a pivotal role in upholding the Constitution. As the final court of appeal, it holds the authority to interpret and safeguard the fundamental rights of citizens. Let’s delve into the rich history, key facts, and the influential role of the Chief Justice of India within this esteemed institution.

Historical Evolution:

The idea of a federal court for British India was conceived under the Government of India Act 1935. However, it wasn’t until the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950 that the Supreme Court came into existence. The inaugural session was held in the Chamber of Princes in the Parliament building, and Chief Justice Harilal Jekisundas Kania became the first Chief Justice of India.

Composition and Jurisdiction:

The Supreme Court comprises the Chief Justice and a maximum of 34 judges, appointed by the President of India. The judges are chosen based on their legal acumen and experience. The court exercises original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction, ensuring its authority over matters involving interpretation of the Constitution, civil and criminal cases, and disputes between states.

Key Facts and Figures:

1. Seat of the Court: The Supreme Court is situated in New Delhi, the capital of India.
2. Landmark Cases: The court has presided over numerous landmark cases that have significantly shaped the legal landscape of the country.
3. Writ Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court holds the power to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights under Article 32 of the Constitution.
4. Guardian of the Constitution: The court acts as the guardian of the Constitution, ensuring that laws and actions comply with its provisions.
5. Advisory Role: Apart from its judicial functions, the Supreme Court also serves in an advisory capacity to the President on matters of public importance.

Power and Role of the Chief Justice of India:

Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud, born on November 11, 1959, is an Indian jurist currently serving as the 50th Chief Justice of India since November 2022. He assumed the position of a judge in the Supreme Court of India in May 2016. Prior to his role as Chief Justice, he served as the Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court from 2013 to 2016 and as a judge in the Bombay High Court from 2000 to 2013. Additionally, he held the position of executive chairperson (ex officio) of the National Legal Services Authority.

Justice Chandrachud has played a pivotal role in delivering significant judgments, including those on the Ram Janmabhoomi case, Privacy verdict, decriminalization of homosexuality, Sabarimala case, same-sex marriage, and the revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Apart from his judicial duties, he has shared his knowledge as a professor, visiting universities such as Mumbai, Oklahoma, Harvard, Yale, and others. He also served as the de facto Chancellor of the National Law School of India University.

The Chief Justice of India, as the head of the Supreme Court, wields significant influence and responsibilities.

1. Administrative Head: The Chief Justice is the administrative head of the judiciary and presides over important meetings, including those related to the appointment of judges.
2. Judicial Decision-Making: In the courtroom, the Chief Justice holds a crucial role in deciding which judges will hear particular cases, impacting the jurisprudential direction.
3. Constitutional Interpretation: The Chief Justice leads in interpreting the Constitution and ensuring that legal principles align with constitutional values.
4. Appointment of Judges: The Chief Justice is involved in the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and high courts, contributing to the selection of legal luminaries.

Challenges and Reforms:

The Supreme Court, like any institution, faces challenges. These may include the backlog of cases, delays in justice delivery, and issues related to transparency. Over the years, efforts have been made to introduce reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency, such as the use of technology in court proceedings.

The Supreme Court of India stands as a bastion of justice, guarding the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution. The Chief Justice of India, at the helm of this institution, plays a crucial role in shaping the legal landscape and upholding the rule of law. As the court continues to evolve, it remains a beacon of hope for those seeking justice and a defender of the constitutional ethos.