The judicial system in India is a complex and well-organized structure that has evolved over centuries. Interestingly, the foundations of this system can be traced back to ancient times, just as the concept of the drain of wealth under British rule had long-lasting impacts on India. The judicial system plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order, ensuring justice, and safeguarding the rights of citizens.
The system has undergone various transformations from the Vedic period to the present day. The judicial system in ancient India was primarily guided by religious texts like the Manusmriti, which laid down rules and regulations. The system was more informal, with village elders and local leaders playing a significant role in dispute resolution. The concept of justice was closely tied to dharma (moral duty), and the system was less structured compared to today.
| GS Paper | General Studies Paper II |
| Topics for UPSC Prelims | Structure of Indian judiciary, Evolution since independence |
| Topics for UPSC Mains | Historical evolution of judiciary, Landmark reforms and cases, Role in upholding democracy and constitutionalism |
The judiciary in ancient India was decentralized, with each village or community having its own system for resolving disputes. Local assemblies or panchayats were responsible for maintaining law and order. The emphasis was on moral and ethical conduct, with punishments designed to restore harmony within the community. This system was simple and accessible but lacked uniformity across different regions.
The judiciary in British India marked a significant shift from the traditional Indian systems. The British introduced a more formal and centralized judicial structure. The establishment of the Supreme Court in Calcutta in 1774 was a key development. The British also brought in codified laws, replacing the diverse legal practices across India with a unified legal system. The period also saw the introduction of English as the language of the courts, which alienated many Indians from the judicial process.
The dual judicial system was another feature of the British period. The system had separate courts for Europeans and Indians, leading to discrimination and unequal treatment. The judiciary in British India laid the groundwork for the legal framework that continues to influence the present judiciary.
The father of judicial system in India is often considered to be Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of India. He played a crucial role in establishing a more formal judicial structure in India. He set up the Adalat system and introduced reforms that were instrumental in shaping the modern judicial system.
The modern judicial system is based on the principles of the Constitution, which was adopted in 1950. The system is hierarchical, with the Supreme Court at the top, followed by High Courts, and then subordinate courts at the district and local levels. The flowchart of judicial system in India shows the hierarchical structure. It ensures that justice is accessible to all citizens.
The present judicial system is well-organized and operates independently from the executive and legislative branches of government. The independence is crucial for upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of individuals. The present judicial system also incorporates principles of natural justice. It ensures that everyone is treated fairly and equally before the law.
To understand how the system is organized in India, it is essential to recognize its multi-tiered structure. The Supreme Court, as the apex court, has the authority to hear appeals from lower courts and has original jurisdiction in certain cases. High Courts operate at the state level, with jurisdiction over civil and criminal matters. Below them are the district and session courts, which handle local disputes and minor offenses.
The dual judicial system refers to the coexistence of civil and criminal courts within the judicial structure. Civil courts handle disputes related to property, contracts, and personal matters. Criminal courts deal with offenses against the state and individuals. The dual system allows for specialized handling of different types of cases, ensuring that justice is served appropriately.
The judicial system is a product of centuries of evolution, influenced by various historical, cultural, and political factors. From the judicial system in ancient India to the judicial system in British India, and finally to the modern judicial system, the journey has been one of continuous improvement and adaptation. Today, the present judicial system stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
| Judicial System in India UPSC Notes |
| 1. The judicial system in India is complex, evolving from ancient practices to a modern, structured system rooted in the Constitution of 1950. 2. The judicial system in ancient India was decentralized, with local panchayats resolving disputes based on moral and ethical codes. 3. The judicial system in British India introduced a formal, centralized structure with codified laws, replacing diverse regional practices across India. 4. Warren Hastings is considered the father of the judicial system in India, establishing key reforms and the Adalat system during British rule. 5. The modern judicial system in India is hierarchical, with the Supreme Court at the top, followed by High Courts and subordinate courts. 6. The present judicial system in India operates independently from the executive and legislative branches, ensuring justice and protecting individual rights. 7. The dual judicial system in India comprises civil and criminal courts, each specializing in different types of cases for appropriate justice. |
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