UPSC Prelims 2003 Q9: Indian Polity – Judiciary
The power to enlarge the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India with respect to any
matter included in the Union List of Legislative Powers rests with
- (a) The President of India
- (b) The Chief Justice of India
- (c) The Parliament
- (d) The Union Ministry of Law, Justice and Company Affairs
Answer: (c) The Parliament
Explanation
Enlarging the Supreme Court's jurisdiction
| Authority | Power |
|---|---|
| Parliament | Yes — Article 138(1): jurisdiction on Union List matters |
| President | No, only with consent for matters beyond the Union List through Article 138(2) |
| Chief Justice of India | No |
| Ministry of Law | No |
The power to enlarge the Supreme Court's jurisdiction on matters in the Union List rests with Parliament (Article 138).
Answer: (c) The Parliament.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The President does not enlarge it for Union List matters.
- (b) Incorrect. The Chief Justice has no such power.
- (c) CORRECT. Parliament can enlarge the jurisdiction under Article 138.
- (d) Incorrect. A ministry cannot enlarge it.
Key point
Article 138: Union List matters by Parliament; others by agreement with the State, by Parliament.
Remember
Parliament can enlarge the Supreme Court's jurisdiction on Union List matters.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the President since he appoints judges.
- Thinking the Chief Justice can extend it by rules.
- Confusing Article 138 with Article 139.
Exam tip
Article 138: enlargement of the Supreme Court's jurisdiction.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Article 138
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Supreme Court)