UPSC Prelims 2003 · General Studies
Question 9: Polity and Governance
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
AnswerThe answer is (c).
Article 138(1) lets Parliament, by law, give the Supreme Court further jurisdiction and powers on any matter in the Union List. Because it requires a law, it is Parliament's power, not the President's, the Chief Justice's or a ministry's. Article 138(2) separately allows additional jurisdiction by special agreement between the Union and a State, again if Parliament provides for it by law.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) The President cannot enlarge the Court's jurisdiction by order; a law is needed.
- (b) The Chief Justice heads the Court but has no power to enlarge its jurisdiction.
- (c) Correct: Article 138 gives this power to Parliament, by law.
- (d) A ministry cannot confer constitutional jurisdiction on the Court.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2003, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.