The organization and structure of the Supreme Court of India
- Composition: The Supreme Court is composed of a Chief Justice and a maximum of 34 other judges, appointed by the President of India. The number of judges can be altered by the Parliament.
- Appointment: Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the President of India based on the recommendations of a collegium, which consists of the Chief Justice of India and four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
- Tenure: The Chief Justice holds office until the age of 65, while other judges retire at the age of 65.
- Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction. It has original jurisdiction in disputes between the Government of India and one or more States or between States. It also hears appeals from high courts and other lower courts.
- Seat: The principal seat of the Supreme Court is in New Delhi. However, it also has the power to sit in other places as the Chief Justice may, with the approval of the President, appoint.
- Powers and Functions: The Supreme Court is the guardian of the Constitution and the highest court of appeal. It has the power of judicial review, meaning it can examine the constitutionality of laws and government actions. It also plays a crucial role in protecting the fundamental rights of citizens.
- Administrative Function: The Supreme Court has administrative control over the entire judicial system, including the appointment and posting of judges in lower courts.
- Advisory Jurisdiction: The President of India can seek the advice of the Supreme Court on matters of public importance.
