ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 4(c) Supreme Court as the Guardian of the Indian Constitution

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 4(c) Supreme Court as the Guardian of the Indian Constitution. Detailed answer discussing the constitutional role of the Supreme Court in protecting democracy, fundamental rights, and constitutional supremacy.

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 4(c) Supreme Court as the Guardian of the Indian Constitution

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question

Q.4(c) Critically examine the role of the Supreme Court as the guardian of the Indian Constitution.

Answer : 

The Supreme Court acts as the guardian of the Constitution by ensuring that all laws and government actions conform to constitutional principles.

One of its most important powers is Judicial Review, through which it can strike down laws and executive actions that violate constitutional provisions. This power helps preserve the supremacy of the Constitution.

The Court also protects Fundamental Rights under Article 32, which Dr. B.R. Ambedkar described as the "heart and soul" of the Constitution. Citizens can directly approach the Supreme Court for the enforcement of their rights.

As the final interpreter of the Constitution, the Court resolves disputes relating to constitutional provisions and Centre-State relations. Through landmark judgments such as Kesavananda Bharati (1973), it evolved the Basic Structure Doctrine, which prevents Parliament from altering the fundamental features of the Constitution.

The Supreme Court has also expanded access to justice through Public Interest Litigation (PIL) and has played an active role in areas such as environmental protection, governance reforms, and human rights.

However, critics argue that excessive judicial activism may sometimes lead to judicial overreach into the domain of the legislature and executive. Delays in disposal of cases and increasing pendency also affect judicial efficiency.

Despite these concerns, the Supreme Court remains a vital institution for safeguarding constitutional values, democracy, and the rule of law.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court plays a crucial role in preserving constitutional supremacy, protecting rights, and maintaining democratic governance. Through judicial review and constitutional interpretation, it continues to serve as the guardian of the Indian Constitution.