What is Article 135 of Indian Constitution – Defination & Meaning

Article 135: Jurisdiction and powers of the Federal Court under existing law to be exercisable by the Supreme Court Until Parliament by law otherwise
📅 Part V – The Union
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📚 UPSC Relevant

Article Number

135

part

Part V – The Union

Status

Active

Full Definition & Explanation

Article 135 of the Indian Constitution addresses the jurisdiction and powers of the Supreme Court regarding matters that were previously under the Federal Court. This article states that until Parliament enacts a law to change this, the Supreme Court can handle cases outside the scope of Articles 133 and 134. These articles specifically relate to appeals to the Supreme Court from High Courts in particular circumstances. By allowing the Supreme Court to take over these responsibilities, the Constitution aims to create a unified judicial system that is necessary for maintaining justice across the nation. This article impacts all citizens seeking legal recourse in matters that don’t strictly fall under other articles. For example, if a legal issue was managed by the Federal Court before the Constitution came into effect, the Supreme Court can now handle that matter. This change simplifies the process for citizens, as they have a single court to approach for legal issues. It also reduces uncertainty about which court has jurisdiction, providing clarity for individuals and legal practitioners alike. The real-world implications of Article 135 are substantial. It ensures that the Supreme Court can provide justice where needed, filling any gaps left by previous laws. By doing so, it plays a key role in the broader judicial framework, making it easier for individuals to navigate the legal landscape. Overall, Article 135 contributes to a more efficient and accessible judicial system, ensuring that justice is served effectively for all citizens, regardless of the complexity of their cases.

Historical Context

Article 135 was introduced during the Constituent Assembly discussions in 1949, reflecting the need for a cohesive judicial system following India’s independence. The framers aimed to ensure that the Supreme Court could assume jurisdiction over matters previously overseen by the Federal Court. This article has remained unchanged since its inception, highlighting its foundational role in the judicial hierarchy. The debates in the Constituent Assembly emphasized the importance of a strong Supreme Court to maintain law and order in the new democratic framework, leading to the inclusion of this article. Supreme Court cases, such as ‘Keshavananda Bharati vs. State of Kerala’, illustrate the article’s practical application in safeguarding constitutional supremacy.

Key Features

– The Supreme Court can exercise jurisdiction over matters previously handled by the Federal Court.
– This jurisdiction applies until Parliament decides otherwise through legislation.
– Article 135 fills the gaps left by Articles 133 and 134.
– It ensures a streamlined judicial process for the public.
– The article promotes clarity in legal jurisdiction

Importance & Impact

– It allows the Supreme Court to take over Federal Court responsibilities.
– Citizens have a clear path for legal recourse in various cases.
– The article enhances the uniformity of the judicial system in India.
– It minimizes confusion regarding jurisdiction for litigants and legal professionals.
– This article plays a role in guaranteeing access to justice for all citizens.

Sample UPSC Question

Consider the following statements regarding Article 135 of the Indian Constitution: 1. It allows the Supreme Court to exercise jurisdiction over matters previously handled by the Federal Court. 2. This jurisdiction remains unchanged and cannot be modified by Parliament. 3. Article 135 applies to cases not specifically covered under Articles 133 and 134. Which of the following statements are correct? A) Only 1 B) Only 2 C) 1 and 3 D) 1, 2 and 3. Discuss the implications of each statement on legal proceedings.

Answer

The correct answer is C) 1 and 3. Article 135 does allow the Supreme Court to take jurisdiction from the Federal Court, but this jurisdiction can be altered by Parliament through appropriate legislation. Therefore, statement 2 is incorrect, as Parliament has the power to change the legal framework governing jurisdiction.

Key Takeaways

✓ Article 135 empowers the Supreme Court to take Federal Court cases.
✓ It helps citizens access justice across various legal matters.
✓ Parliament possesses the power to modify this jurisdiction through legislation.
✓ This article promotes a unified judicial system in India.
✓ It reduces ambiguity regarding legal jurisdiction for individuals.

FAQs

Article 135 allows the Supreme Court to assume jurisdiction over matters that were previously under the Federal Court’s authority. This ensures that there is a clear legal framework for addressing cases not covered by other articles. It plays a key role in streamlining the judicial system, making it easier for citizens to seek justice efficiently.

This change simplifies the process for citizens, as they have a single court to approach for legal issues. It also reduces uncertainty about which court has jurisdiction, providing clarity for individuals and legal practitioners alike. The real-world implications of Article 135 are substantial. Article 135 of the Indian Constitution addresses the jurisdiction and powers of the Supreme Court regarding matters that were previously under the Federal Court.

Articles 133 and 134 are closely related to Article 135, as they deal with appeals to the Supreme Court from High Courts. Understanding these articles provides context to the jurisdictional authority of the Supreme Court. This knowledge helps clarify how cases are processed within the legal system and the specific circumstances under which appeals can be made.

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