Introduction
Article 145 gives the Supreme Court of India the power to make its own rules. These rules control how the Court works every day. The Court decides its practice and procedure through this Article. Parliament can pass laws on procedure, and those laws will prevail. The President must also approve the rules. This balance protects judicial independence while keeping democratic oversight. The Article mainly applies to the Supreme Court under Chapter IV, from Articles 124 to 147.
Why Does Article 145 Matter for the Supreme Court?
Article 145 matters because it lets the Supreme Court manage itself. The Court can respond to changing workloads. It can simplify processes. It can ensure fairness and speed. At the same time, Parliament and the President act as checks. This structure keeps the Court independent but accountable.
What Powers Does Article 145 Give to the Supreme Court?
Article 145 authorizes the Supreme Court to frame detailed procedural rules. The Court can regulate who can practice before it. It can set timelines for appeals. It can design procedures for enforcing fundamental rights. It can control review petitions and costs. It can decide rules on bail and stays. It can also deter frivolous appeals. These powers help the Court reduce delays and improve case management.
How Does Article 145 Regulate Appeals and Reviews?
The Article allows the Court to streamline appeals. The Court can fix time limits. It can define formats. It can decide how reviews are filed and heard. These rules prevent misuse of process. They also help students understand why not every case reaches the same stage. The goal is clarity, speed, and fairness.
How Does Article 145 Decide Bench Composition?
Article 145 allows the Supreme Court to decide bench strength. The Court can create single-judge benches for suitable matters. It can form division benches for regular cases. For major constitutional questions, the Article sets a higher threshold. At least five judges must hear cases that involve substantial questions of constitutional interpretation. This rule ensures depth and authority in landmark decisions.
Why Are Larger Benches Required for Constitutional Questions?
The Constitution demands seriousness in constitutional interpretation. Article 145 requires a minimum of five judges for such cases. This rule promotes collective wisdom. It reduces individual bias. It also strengthens public confidence. When the Court interprets the Constitution, it speaks with a broader voice.
What Is the Open Court Requirement Under Article 145?
Article 145 mandates that judgments be delivered in open court. The public can hear decisions. This includes opinions given under Article 143, which deals with presidential references. Open courts promote transparency. They allow scrutiny. They educate citizens and students. This rule reinforces trust in the judiciary.
How Does Article 145 Ensure Transparency and Accountability?
Open delivery of judgments is one pillar. Majority decision-making is another. Article 145 requires that decisions reflect the opinion of the majority of judges present. Judges can still write dissenting opinions. Dissent enriches the law. It shows honest disagreement. It helps future courts evolve legal principles. Transparency and dissent together strengthen democracy.
What Is the Rule of Majority and Dissent?
Under Article 145, the majority view decides the case. This rule ensures finality. At the same time, judges may record dissent. Dissent does not change the outcome. It preserves alternative reasoning. Many famous dissents later became law.
How Does Article 145 Balance Autonomy and Oversight?
The Supreme Court frames rules independently. The President approves them. Parliament can override them by law. This balance prevents misuse of power. It protects independence without isolation. The judiciary remains strong and responsible. This design reflects constitutional wisdom.
What Is the Historical Background of Article 145?
Article 145 began as Draft Article 121. The Constituent Assembly debated it on June 6, 1949. Members wanted judicial autonomy. They also wanted safeguards. The Assembly adopted the draft without amendment. The final Article reflects common law traditions. It respects separation of powers.
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Conclusion
Article 145 is a backbone provision for the Supreme Court. It empowers the Court to function smoothly. It ensures open justice. It enforces majority rule. It protects dissent. It balances independence with control. For exams and understanding, students should remember that Article 145 is about rules, procedure, and transparency at the highest court of India.
