The judiciary (also known as the judicial system or the court system) is the system of courts that interprets and applies the law in the name of the state. The judiciary can also be thought of as the mechanism for the resolution of disputes.

Judiciary organisation of government that settle disputes through interpretation of law. it is an independent organisation of government.

The Role of the Judiciary

The judiciary is one of the three main branches of government, along with the executive and legislative branches. Its role is to interpret and apply the law, as well as resolve disputes between individuals and the state. The judiciary acts as a safeguard against the abuse of power and ensures the rule of law is upheld. In the CBSE Class 8 SST Civics curriculum, the role of the judiciary is explained in detail. Let's delve into it:

1. Interpreting and Applying the Law:
The judiciary plays a crucial role in interpreting and applying the law. It interprets the meaning and intent of laws passed by the legislature and determines how they should be implemented. This ensures consistency and fairness in the legal system.

2. Adjudicating Disputes:
One of the primary functions of the judiciary is to adjudicate disputes. It acts as an impartial arbiter and resolves conflicts between individuals, organizations, or the state. This includes civil cases, where individuals seek compensation for harm suffered, and criminal cases, where individuals are prosecuted for violating the law.

3. Protecting Individual Rights:
The judiciary safeguards individual rights and liberties by ensuring that laws and government actions do not infringe upon them. It acts as a check on the powers of the executive and legislative branches, ensuring that they do not violate the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

4. Judicial Review:
The judiciary has the power of judicial review, which allows it to review the constitutionality of laws and government actions. If a law or action is found to be unconstitutional, the judiciary can invalidate or strike it down. This power helps to maintain the balance of power between the branches of government and protect the rights of citizens.

5. Public Interest Litigation:
The judiciary also plays a vital role in addressing public interest issues through Public Interest Litigation (PIL). PIL allows individuals or organizations to seek legal remedies for issues that affect the general public. This enables the judiciary to take up matters of social justice and ensure the welfare of society.

The role of the judiciary is crucial in upholding the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law. It acts as a vital check on the powers of the other branches of government and protects the rights of individuals and society as a whole.