Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define judicial activism and its significance in the Indian context. Introduce the ‘basic structure’ doctrine established in the Kesavananda Bharati vs. State of Kerala case (1973). State the thesis: Judicial activism has been instrumental in reinforcing democratic principles in ...
The following are some reasons by which judgments in the Indian judicial system look for unreasonable amount of time: A few of the key causes are: 1. Case Backlog: -Pendency of Cases: The major issue is that a large number cases are heard in many courts, and therefore disposal of judgments is a slowRead more
The following are some reasons by which judgments in the Indian judicial system look for unreasonable amount of time: A few of the key causes are:
1. Case Backlog:
-Pendency of Cases: The major issue is that a large number cases are heard in many courts, and therefore disposal of judgments is a slow process.
-Increasing Caseload: This is so due to the fact that the population of people is on the increase everyday, and problems of law also are on the increase.
2. Resource Constraints:
-Judges Shortage: This means that the relatively few judges deployed in subsidiary and superior courts slow the discharging of cases and delivery of judgment.
-Infrastructure Shortages: Poor infrastructure like the courthouses, and/or administrative building and so on, can frustrate the functionality of courts
-3. Procedural Complications:
-Procedural Lengthy Process of Law: This is elongated by complication of laws and other subsequent appeals in different tiers of the courts system.
-Technical Problems and Delay: Technical arguments and points of procedure are often postponed and they form good causes of nuisance and stalling.
4. Other Factors:
-Lack of Proper Legal Counselling: Unfortunately many a poor especially from the most backward sections cannot engage an advocate and this results in either adjournment of the hearing or poor counseling.
-Corruption and Inefficient Judiciary: Delaying factors are likely to be aggravated when corruption and an ineffective judicial system are added to the concoction.
These specific overall factors are therefore part of the reason why justice is done gradually. The time has come to renew and rejuvenate the system in order to improve reliability, organization of procedures, add more resources, and increase the efficiency of the judicial system.
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Model Answer Introduction The Indian judiciary has played a crucial role in shaping the democratic framework of the country through its power of judicial review. Judicial activism, particularly the introduction of the 'basic structure' doctrine in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati vs. State of KeralaRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Indian judiciary has played a crucial role in shaping the democratic framework of the country through its power of judicial review. Judicial activism, particularly the introduction of the ‘basic structure’ doctrine in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati vs. State of Kerala case (1973), has been essential in safeguarding democratic ideals.
Protection of Fundamental Rights
Judicial activism has significantly enhanced the protection of fundamental rights. For instance, Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, has been expansively interpreted. In Maneka Gandhi vs. Union of India (1978), the Supreme Court ruled that this right includes the right to live with dignity. Furthermore, in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) vs. Union of India (2017), the Court recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21, demonstrating the judiciary’s proactive stance in evolving human rights jurisprudence.
Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
Public Interest Litigation has emerged as a vital tool for judicial activism in India. The Supreme Court’s decision in S.P. Gupta vs. Union of India (1981) relaxed the traditional rule of locus standi, allowing any citizen to seek legal remedies in matters of public interest. This democratization of access to justice empowers marginalized voices and promotes accountability.
Environmental Jurisprudence
The judiciary has also actively protected the environment, linking it to the right to life under Article 21. In M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India (1986), judicial interventions led to the closure of polluting industries in Delhi, exemplifying the judiciary’s commitment to environmental justice.
Upholding Secularism and Social Justice
Judicial activism has been crucial in upholding secularism, as seen in S.R. Bommai vs. Union of India (1994), and promoting social justice, exemplified by the Vishaka vs. State of Rajasthan (1997) case, which established guidelines against workplace sexual harassment.
Conclusion
Overall, judicial activism has played a significant role in the evolution of Indian democracy by enforcing rights and ensuring accountability. While debates on the balance between judicial activism and restraint continue, the judiciary’s proactive role remains vital in protecting the democratic fabric of the nation.
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