The Judiciary: Advanced
7 videos • 374 views • by Prospect IAS Judiciary in India: Structure, Functions, and Role This playlist on the Indian Judiciary is an in-depth exploration of one of the three pillars of Indian democracy. The Indian Judiciary, comprising the Supreme Court, High Courts, and Subordinate Courts, plays a crucial role in maintaining the rule of law, protecting fundamental rights, and ensuring justice for all. This playlist will provide aspirants with a clear understanding of the judicial system's structure, its functioning, and how it interacts with other branches of government. The series will be divided into several key sections to cover the judiciary comprehensively: Constitutional Framework of Judiciary An introduction to the Constitutional provisions that establish and govern the Judiciary in India. Focus on Articles related to the judiciary, especially Articles 124 to 147 for the Supreme Court and Articles 214 to 231 for High Courts. Overview of the basic structure doctrine and the judiciary’s role in safeguarding it. Hierarchy and Structure of the Judicial System Detailed explanation of the Supreme Court, High Courts, and Subordinate Courts (District and Session Courts). How cases move through various levels, appeals processes, and special courts (like Family Courts, Consumer Courts, and Fast-Track Courts). Powers and Jurisdiction of the Courts Coverage of original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. Understanding writ jurisdiction and the types of writs—habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, certiorari, and quo warranto. Discussion on judicial review and its significance in upholding constitutional principles. Role of the Judiciary in Governance and Public Policy The judiciary’s impact on policy-making and governance through landmark judgments. Cases where judicial intervention has led to socio-economic reforms, such as Right to Privacy, Right to Education, and Environmental Protection cases. Concepts of judicial activism and judicial overreach, with examples and critical analysis. Independence of Judiciary Explanation of the constitutional mechanisms and safeguards to ensure judicial independence. Topics like security of tenure, salary protection, appointment process, and impeachment. Importance of an independent judiciary in a democratic setup and challenges to its independence. Judicial Reforms and Challenges Overview of key reforms needed within the judiciary, such as case backlog reduction, improvement in court infrastructure, and increasing the use of technology in courts. Examination of challenges like pendency of cases, judicial corruption, and the need for transparency in judicial appointments. Analysis of recent reform proposals, like the All India Judicial Services and the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC). Landmark Judgments and Their Impact In-depth analysis of landmark Supreme Court judgments like Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala, Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India, Vineet Narain case (leading to the establishment of CBI independence), and others. Insights into how these judgments have shaped India's socio-political and legal landscape and their implications for civil rights and governance. Judiciary and Fundamental Rights Examination of the judiciary’s role in interpreting and enforcing Fundamental Rights. Discussions on PILs (Public Interest Litigations), which allow citizens to approach the court for public grievances and promote social justice. This playlist will be invaluable for UPSC aspirants, providing both conceptual clarity and practical insights into India’s judicial system. Each topic will be explained with examples, case studies, and references to recent developments, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the judiciary’s role in India. Hashtags: #IndianJudiciary #SupremeCourt #JudicialSystem #FundamentalRights #PublicPolicy #JudicialReview #LandmarkJudgments #JudicialReforms #UPSC