Topic Details (Notes format)

Judicial Restraint vs. Judicial Activism

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Debates the extent courts should intervene in policy. Judicial restraint advocates minimal interference, respecting the legislature’s and executive’s domain. Judicial activism supports proactive stances to fill legislative gaps or protect rights. While activism has led to progressive decisions on environmental issues, women’s rights, and corruption, excessive activism risks overshadowing elected bodies. Restraint ensures stability and democratic respect. Balancing both is key—courts must uphold constitutional principles yet avoid legislative or policy-making roles. Understanding this spectrum helps contextualize judgments that shape the interplay of law, politics, and social reforms in India’s constitutional democracy.

Practice Questions

संसद में मतभेद सुलझाने के लिए किस व्यवस्था का प्रयोग होता है?

नागरिकता की अवधारणा किस अनुच्छेद से शुरू होती है?

Which of the following provisions is related to the emergency powers of the President of India?

राष्ट्रपति द्वारा दी जाने वाली शपथ किस अनुच्छेद में प्रावधिक है?

Who appoints the members of the Election Commission of India?

संविधान के किस अनुच्छेद में मौलिक अधिकारों का विवरण है?

Which article of the Indian Constitution provides for the protection of rights of minorities?

राज्यों के बीच मतभेदों का समाधान किस प्रावधान के तहत किया जाता है?

विधायिका के प्रमुख का चुनाव किस प्रक्रिया से होता है?

Which of the following is a Directive Principle of State Policy in India?