Topic Details (Notes format)

Judicial Activism

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Characterized by proactive judgments where courts step in to fill legislative or executive voids. Often exercised through Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that broadens access to justice for marginalized communities. Critics argue that excessive activism blurs the separation of powers. However, advocates see it as necessary when governance fails, citing cases like Vishakha (1997) on workplace harassment guidelines and environment protection mandates. Judicial activism can reshape socio-political landscapes, as judges interpret fundamental rights in progressive ways. Balancing activism and judicial restraint remains a constant debate, hinging on whether courts are overreaching or rightfully safeguarding constitutional morality.

Practice Questions

Which article of the Indian Constitution allows the President to declare a National Emergency?

Who among the following is the ex-officio Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of India?

राज्यों के बीच शक्तियों का संतुलन किस सिद्धांत पर आधारित है?

Which of the following is a power of the Rajya Sabha?

विधान सभा अध्यक्ष की योग्यता किस आधार पर निर्धारित होती है?

Who was the first woman Speaker of the Lok Sabha?

Which of the following is an essential feature of a federal system?

न्यायिक समीक्षा का सिद्धांत किसके द्वारा समर्थित है?

किस संविधान संशोधन ने निर्वाचन प्रणाली में सुधार किया?

राष्ट्रपति के आपातकालिक शक्तियाँ किस अनुच्छेद के तहत निर्धारित हैं?