Article 131 of Indian Constitution
Article 131 – Original Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court
Text of Article 131:
Article 131 gives the Supreme Court original jurisdiction in disputes between the Union and States or between two or more States.
It allows the Supreme Court to adjudicate disputes directly, without the matter being first heard by a lower court.
Scope of Article 131
Types of Disputes Covered:
Disputes between the Union and one or more States.
Disputes between two or more States.
These disputes must relate to questions of law or fact concerning the interpretation of the Constitution, federal powers, or boundaries.
Exclusions:
Article 131 does not cover disputes between private parties and the State, or between private parties.
It applies only to the Union and the States, or inter-State disputes.
Original Jurisdiction Only:
The Supreme Court acts directly as the first court; appeals are not required.
Key Features
Federal Nature:
Article 131 reinforces the federal structure by providing a mechanism to resolve disputes between different levels of government.
Binding on Parties:
Supreme Court’s decision under Article 131 is final and binding.
Exclusive Power:
The Supreme Court is the only authority to decide such disputes, emphasizing its constitutional role.
Judicial Restraint:
Courts usually encourage amicable settlement, though they have full power to adjudicate.
Important Case Laws
State of West Bengal v. Union of India (1962)
Supreme Court examined its original jurisdiction under Article 131 and clarified that the Court can decide questions of law or fact that affect the rights of the Union and States.
State of Karnataka v. Union of India (1977)
Reiterated that Article 131 is exclusive to intergovernmental disputes, and private citizens cannot invoke it.
S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994)
While primarily about President’s Rule, the case discussed inter-State and Union-State disputes, emphasizing the Supreme Court’s role in federal adjudication.
Significance of Article 131
Maintains Federal Harmony:
Provides a constitutional forum to resolve disputes between the Union and States or between States themselves.
Prevents Conflicts:
By giving the Supreme Court exclusive jurisdiction, it avoids prolonged political or legal disputes.
Strengthens Rule of Law:
Ensures that questions of constitutional interpretation affecting States or Union are settled by the highest court.
Promotes Judicial Efficiency:
Avoids multiplicity of proceedings by giving the Supreme Court direct authority to hear intergovernmental disputes.
Conclusion
Article 131 is a cornerstone of India’s federal structure, giving the Supreme Court original jurisdiction to adjudicate disputes between the Union and States, or between States. Landmark cases like State of West Bengal v. Union of India and State of Karnataka v. Union of India highlight the importance of Article 131 in maintaining federal balance, resolving conflicts, and ensuring constitutional supremacy.
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