How India’s Three-Tiered Judicial System Functions and the Significance of the Supreme Court

India, known for being the world’s largest democracy, has a well-structured judicial system with three tiers. The highest court of India, known as the Supreme Court, is responsible for upholding the law and delivering justice. At the forefront of the Supreme Court is the Chief Justice of India, who plays a crucial role in maintaining the country’s judicial system and upholding the Indian Constitution.

The Indian Judicial System

The Indian judicial system functions in three tiers: The Supreme Court, the High Court, and the Subordinate Courts. The Supreme Court is the apex court of India and is located in New Delhi. The court has the power of judicial review, which means it can strike down any law that is found to be unconstitutional. The High Court has jurisdiction over a particular state or a group of states and is responsible for interpreting and implementing the law. Lastly, the Subordinate Courts are responsible for handling the day-to-day legal issues of the country.

The Role of the Chief Justice of India

The Chief Justice of India is responsible for managing the Supreme Court and ensuring that justice is delivered to the people of India. The 50th Chief Justice of India is Hon’ble Justice N.V. Ramana, who assumed office on April 24, 2021. He is the first Chief Justice of India from the state of Andhra Pradesh.

As the head of the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice of India has several duties, such as appointing judges, supervising the functioning of the court, and hearing cases of national importance. The Chief Justice also presides over the Collegium, which is responsible for appointing judges to the High Court and the Supreme Court.

The Appointment of the Chief Justice of India

The appointment of the Chief Justice of India is done by the President of India after consultation with judges of the Supreme Court. According to Article 124 of the Indian Constitution, the Supreme Court shall consist of a Chief Justice of India and not more than seven other judges. The appointment of the Chief Justice of India is significant as it ensures that the country’s judicial system is led by a competent and capable individual.

The Significance of the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court plays a vital role in upholding the Indian Constitution and ensuring that justice is delivered to the people of India. The court has the power to strike down any law that is found to be unconstitutional, ensuring that the country is governed by the rule of law. The Supreme Court also has the power to hear cases of national importance, which have a significant impact on the country’s governance.

The Chief Justice of India plays a crucial role in upholding the country’s judicial system and ensuring that justice is delivered to the people of India. With the Indian judicial system functioning in three tiers, the Supreme Court, the High Court, and the Subordinate Courts, the Chief Justice of India’s responsibilities extend beyond the apex court. As the 50th Chief Justice of India, Hon’ble Justice N.V. Ramana has a significant role to play in upholding the Indian Constitution and ensuring that justice is delivered to the people of India