1. What is the judiciary?

The judiciary is the system of courts that interprets and applies the law in a country.

2. Name the three organs of the government.

The legislature, the executive, and the judiciary.

3. What is the main role of the judiciary?

To resolve disputes, interpret laws, and uphold the Constitution.

4. Why is the judiciary important?

It protects rights, checks abuse of power, and ensures rule of law.

5. What does ‘rule of law’ mean?

That laws govern the land and everyone, including the government, must follow them.

6. What is ‘justice’?

Justice means fair treatment under the law and protection of rights.

7. Who can approach the court?

Any person, group, or public-spirited individual can approach courts; sometimes courts also allow PILs.

8. Which is the highest court in India?

The Supreme Court of India.

9. What comes below the Supreme Court?

The High Courts of states and union territories.

10. Name the courts below High Courts.

Subordinate or district courts (civil and criminal courts, tribunals).

11. What is the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court?

It has appellate, advisory, and original jurisdiction in constitutional matters.

12. What is a High Court’s main function?

To hear appeals from lower courts and protect fundamental rights in its territory.

13. What kinds of cases do subordinate courts handle?

Most civil and criminal cases at district or local level.

14. Give an example of a specialised tribunal.

Consumer courts or family courts are examples of specialised tribunals.

15. Who heads the Supreme Court?

The Chief Justice of India.

16. Where can one file an appeal against a High Court decision?

In the Supreme Court, if the case qualifies for appellate jurisdiction.

17. What is judicial review?

The power of courts to examine laws or executive actions and declare them unconstitutional if they violate the Constitution.

18. Name a writ issued by courts to protect personal liberty.

Habeas corpus is issued to protect personal liberty.

19. What does the writ ‘mandamus’ do?

Mandamus orders a public official to perform a public duty they failed to perform.

20. What is ‘certiorari’?

An order quashing a lower court’s or authority’s decision for legal errors.

21. Define ‘quo warranto’.

A writ to challenge a person’s claim to a public office.

22. What is ‘prohibition’ writ?

It prohibits a lower court or tribunal from exceeding its jurisdiction.

23. How does judiciary protect fundamental rights?

By hearing petitions, issuing writs, and striking down laws that violate rights.

24. What is the role of judiciary in civil disputes?

To decide cases about property, contracts, and personal disputes according to law.

25. How does judiciary handle criminal cases?

Through criminal courts that try offences, award punishment, and ensure fair trial.

26. What is judicial independence?

Freedom of the judiciary from interference by the executive, legislature, or other powers.

27. Why is judicial independence important?

It ensures impartial decisions, protection of rights, and public confidence in courts.

28. Give one safeguard for judicial independence.

Security of tenure: judges cannot be easily removed from office.

29. Name another safeguard for judges.

Fixed salaries that cannot be reduced while in office.

30. How are higher court judges appointed?

Through a consultative system involving existing judges and the executive (Collegium conventions).

31. Can judges be removed?

Yes, but removal is rare and requires impeachment or special procedures for higher judiciary.

32. What does ‘security of tenure’ prevent?

It prevents arbitrary removal and political pressure on judges.

33. Does judicial independence mean judges have no accountability?

No. Judges are accountable through impeachment, disciplinary rules, and ethical standards.

34. What is Public Interest Litigation (PIL)?

PIL allows courts to hear cases on behalf of people who cannot approach them themselves.

35. Give an example of an issue handled via PIL.

Environmental protection, rights of prisoners, or corruption cases can be taken up as PILs.

36. What does judicial review protect?

The Constitution and citizens' fundamental rights from unlawful laws or actions.

37. Which courts can issue writs?

The Supreme Court and High Courts can issue writs for protection of rights.

38. What is the purpose of writs?

To provide speedy remedies when a person's rights are violated by the state or authorities.

39. Can ordinary citizens file PILs?

Yes, public-spirited citizens, NGOs, or groups can file PILs in courts.

40. Which writ helps a detained person seek release?

Habeas corpus helps a detained person seek release if detention is unlawful.

41. Who benefits from judicial review?

All citizens benefit, as it ensures laws and actions follow the Constitution.

42. Who appoints Supreme Court judges?

Supreme Court judges are appointed by the President, in consultation with senior judges and through conventions.

43. What is impeachment of a judge?

A constitutional process to remove a judge for proved misbehavior or incapacity.

44. Name one major challenge faced by the judiciary.

Large backlog of pending cases causing delays in justice.

45. How can access to justice be improved?

By legal aid, more courts, simplified procedures, and using technology for hearings.

46. What is alternate dispute resolution?

Methods like arbitration and mediation that resolve disputes outside courts.

47. Why is timely justice important?

Because delayed justice can deny effective relief and reduce public trust in courts.

48. Give one step to reduce case backlog.

Establish more courts and fast-track procedures for certain cases.

49. What is the role of legal aid?

To provide free legal help to those who cannot afford lawyers.

50. Summarise the role of the judiciary in one line.

The judiciary interprets laws, protects rights, and ensures justice according to the Constitution.