Learn about India’s Judicial System

It is important to learn India’s judicial system because it is one of the pillar of the democracy. Therefore, it is important to be aware about the judicial system.

It is structured in a hierarchical manner, with the Supreme Court at the apex, followed by High Courts at the state level, and also various subordinate courts, including District Courts and other lower courts at the district and taluka (sub-district) levels.

1. Supreme Court of India

– The highest judicial authority in the country.
– Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction. Therefore, it primarily deals with constitutional issues, appeals from High Courts, and also significant cases involving the interpretation of laws.
– Composition: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) heads the Supreme Court, along with a number of other judges (thus, currently 34 in total, including the CJI).

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2. High Courts

– The principal civil courts of original jurisdiction in each state.
– Jurisdiction: High Courts have both original and appellate jurisdiction. They hear appeals from lower courts and can also deal with cases directly if they fall within their jurisdiction.
– Composition: Each High Court is headed by a Chief Justice and comprises several other judges. Some High Courts serve more than one state.

3. District Courts

– Serve as the primary courts of first instance in the judicial hierarchy.
– Jurisdiction: District Courts handle civil and criminal cases at the district level. They hear cases under their jurisdiction and also hear appeals from lower courts within the district.
– Composition: A District Judge heads these courts, assisted by additional judges for both civil and criminal cases.

4. Subordinate Courts

– Civil Courts: These include Courts of Subordinate Judges and Munsiffs, dealing with civil matters at the local level.
– Criminal Courts: These include Courts of Judicial Magistrates, which handle criminal cases. Also, Sessions Courts handle more serious criminal cases.

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5. Specialized Courts and Tribunals

– Family Courts: Handle cases related to family matters such as divorce, child custody, etc.
– Consumer Courts: Address disputes between consumers and sellers/service providers.
– Labour Courts: Deal with disputes related to labor laws and employment.
– Tribunals: Various tribunals like the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT), and others deal with specific areas of law.

6. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

– Lok Adalats: Informal courts that facilitate the settlement of disputes through conciliation and compromise too.
– Arbitration and Mediation: Mechanisms for resolving disputes outside of the formal court system, often involving neutral third parties.

Thus, the Indian judiciary is known for its independence and plays a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution and ensuring the rule of law in the country.

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