The Apex Court, commonly known as the highest judicial authority in a country, plays a pivotal role in shaping the legal landscape and upholding justice. In India, for instance, the Supreme Court holds the highest authority in interpreting the Constitution and resolving disputes that impact national governance. Understanding the functioning, significance, and powers of the Apex Court is crucial for anyone interested in the judicial system and its impact on democracy. In this blog post, we delve into the topic of the Apex Court through a series of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). Each question will not only challenge your knowledge but also provide clear, concise answers with detailed explanations to enhance your understanding of the judicial system’s most authoritative body. Whether you’re a law student, an aspiring legal professional, or simply curious about the highest court’s role in the legal system, this post offers valuable insights that will deepen your understanding.
MCQs on Apex Court with Answers
1. Which of the following jurisdictions of the Supreme Court of India allows it to hear and determine disputes between the Government of India and one or more States, or between two or more States?
a) Appellate Jurisdiction
b) Advisory Jurisdiction
c) Original Jurisdiction
d) Writ Jurisdiction
Answer: c) Original Jurisdiction
Explanation: The Supreme Court’s Original Jurisdiction, as defined in Article 131 of the Indian Constitution, empowers it to resolve disputes of a federal nature, specifically those between the Union and the States, or between the States themselves.
2. The power of the Supreme Court to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights is exercised under which article of the Indian Constitution?
a) Article 32
b) Article 226
c) Article 136
d) Article 143
Answer: a) Article 32
Explanation: Article 32 grants the Supreme Court the power to issue writs (habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, certiorari, and quo warranto) to protect fundamental rights. Article 226 grants similar powers to High Courts.
3. Under what circumstances can the President of India seek the advisory opinion of the Supreme Court?
a) On any question of law or fact of public importance.
b) Only on matters related to national security.
c) Only on matters referred by the Parliament.
d) Only on matters related to financial emergencies.
Answer: a) On any question of law or fact of public importance.
Explanation: Article 143 of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to seek the Supreme Court’s advisory opinion on any question of law or fact of public importance. However, the Supreme Court’s opinion is not binding on the President.
4. The “Doctrine of Judicial Review” as practiced by the Supreme Court of India, is derived from which of the following.
a) Express provisions within the Indian Constitution.
b) Interpretations of the “due process” clause.
c) The power of the court to interpret the constitution, and declare laws unconstitutional.
d) all of the above.
Answer: d) all of the above.
Explanation: The doctrine of judicial review, while not explicitly stated in one single article, is derived from the court’s role as the guardian of the constitution. This is done through the courts power of interpretation of the constitution, and also the courts ability to check if laws are in line with the constitution.
5. What is the significance of the Supreme Court’s “Appellate Jurisdiction” in the Indian judicial system?
a) It allows the Supreme Court to provide advisory opinions to the President.
b) It enables the Supreme Court to resolve disputes between the Union and the States.
c) It provides a final court of appeal for cases from lower courts and tribunals.
d) It empowers the Supreme Court to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights.
Answer: c) It provides a final court of appeal for cases from lower courts and tribunals.
Explanation: The Appellate Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court allows it to hear appeals from High Courts and other tribunals, making it the highest court of appeal in the country.
6. The appointment of the Chief Justice of India is done by the president of India. In this process, what is the role of the collegium?
a) The collegium has no role.
b) The collegium recommends the name of the most senior supreme court judge.
c) The collegium recommends a panel of names from which the president chooses.
d) The collegium conducts a public election.
Answer: b) The collegium recommends the name of the most senior supreme court judge.
Explanation: By convention, the senior most judge of the supreme court is recommended by the collegium to be appointed as the Chief Justice of India.
7. What is the meaning of the Supreme Court being a “Court of Record”?
a) It maintains records of all financial transactions of the judiciary.
b) Its judgments and records serve as legal precedents and have evidentiary value.
c) It keeps records of all cases filed in lower courts.
d) It maintains records of all legislative debates in Parliament.
Answer: b) Its judgments and records serve as legal precedents and have evidentiary value.
Explanation: As a “Court of Record,” the Supreme Court’s decisions are recorded and serve as authoritative precedents for all lower courts.
8. Under what conditions can a judge of the Supreme Court be removed from office?
a) By a simple majority vote in Parliament.
b) By an executive order from the President.
c) By a proven misbehavior or incapacity, and a special majority vote in both houses of Parliament.
d) By a decision of the Chief Justice of India.
Answer: c) By a proven misbehavior or incapacity, and a special majority vote in both houses of Parliament.
Explanation: The removal process requires a rigorous process, ensuring judicial independence.
9. Which article of the Indian constitution gives the supreme court the power to grant special leave to appeal?
a) Article 32
b) Article 143
c) Article 136
d) Article 226
Answer: c) Article 136
Explanation: Article 136, grants the supreme court discretionary power to grant special leave to appeal from any judgment, decree, determination, sentence, or order in any cause or matter passed or made by any court or tribunal in the territory of India. 1
10. What is the constitutional purpose of the supreme court having jurisdiction over disputes relating to the election of the president or vice president?
a) To insure that the election where fair.
b) to provide a location for the vote counting.
c) to provide a location for the swearing in ceremony.
d) to act as a advisory board for the election commision.
Answer: a) To insure that the election where fair.
Explanation: The Supreme Court’s role in adjudicating disputes related to presidential and vice-presidential elections is crucial for ensuring the integrity and fairness of these high-level electoral processes.
The Apex Court stands as the ultimate guardian of justice, ensuring the protection of rights, upholding the Constitution, and resolving disputes that affect the nation. Through the MCQs explored in this blog post, you’ve gained a clearer understanding of its structure, powers, and significance. We hope that the answers and explanations provided have helped to clarify any doubts you may have had regarding the functioning of the highest court. The role of the Apex Court in shaping legal precedents is vital, and understanding its nuances can deepen your appreciation for the judicial system. Keep exploring, stay informed, and continue to enhance your knowledge of legal structures and their profound impact on society!