Indian constitution establishes an independent judiciary. The phrase i...
The principal role of the judiciary is to protect the rule of law and ensure supremacy of law. It safeguards the rights of the individual, settles disputes in accordance with the law and ensures that democracy does not give way to individual or group dictatorship. In order to be able to do all this, it is necessary that the judiciary is independent of any political pressures. Here, independence of judiciary means that
- the other organs of the government like the executive and legislature must not restrain the functioning of the judiciary in such a way that it is unable to do justice.
- the other organs of the government should not interfere with the decision of the judiciary. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- judges must be able to perform their functions without fear or favour. Hence, statement 2 is correct.
- Independence of the judiciary does not imply arbitrariness or absence of accountability. Judiciary is a part of the democratic political structure of the country. It is therefore accountable to the Constitution, to the democratic traditions and to the people of the country. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.
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Indian constitution establishes an independent judiciary. The phrase i...
The correct answer is option 'A', which means that the phrase "independent judiciary" in the Indian constitution refers to both points 1 and 2 only. Let's understand each of these points in detail:
1. No Arbitrary Interference: The phrase "independent judiciary" implies that the judiciary should be free from any arbitrary interference by other organs of the government. This means that the executive and legislative branches should not unduly influence or interfere with the decision-making process of the judiciary. The judiciary should have the power to make decisions based on the law and the Constitution, without external pressure or influence. This ensures that the judiciary acts as a check and balance on the other branches of government, safeguarding individual rights and upholding the rule of law.
2. Fearless and Impartial Judges: An independent judiciary also means that judges must be able to perform their functions without any fear or favor. They should be able to make decisions solely based on the merits of the case and the applicable laws, without any external pressure or influence. This ensures that justice is administered fairly and impartially, without any bias or prejudice. The independence of judges is crucial for upholding the principles of equality before the law and ensuring that every individual receives a fair trial.
The third point mentioned in the question, i.e., the absence of accountability of judges of the higher courts, is not included in the concept of an independent judiciary. Rather, accountability is an important aspect of a functioning judiciary. While judges should be independent in their decision-making, they should also be accountable for their actions. Accountability mechanisms such as judicial review, disciplinary proceedings, and impeachment processes exist to ensure that judges uphold the highest standards of integrity and conduct.
In conclusion, an independent judiciary, as established by the Indian constitution, implies that the judiciary should be free from arbitrary interference by other organs of the government and that judges should be able to perform their functions without fear or favor. This ensures the fair and impartial administration of justice, upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights.
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