OPSC OAS 2024 PrelimsPolityQuestion 1
Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2024 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
Which one of the following Articles of Indian constitution provides that the law declared by the Supreme Court shall be binding on all courts within the territory of India?
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (B) Article 141
Article 141 of the Indian Constitution states: "Law declared by Supreme Court to be binding on all courts"
The complete text reads: "The law declared by the Supreme Court shall be binding on all courts within the territory of India."
Key Features of Article 141
- It establishes the doctrine of precedent (stare decisis) in India
- Ensures uniformity and consistency in the application of law across the country
- Makes the Supreme Court the final interpreter of the Constitution
- All subordinate courts (High Courts, District Courts, etc.) are bound to follow Supreme Court decisions
Understanding Other Options
- (A) Article 131 – Deals with the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in disputes between the Government of India and States, or between States themselves.
- (C) Article 144 – Provides that all authorities, civil and judicial, in the territory of India shall act in aid of the Supreme Court. This relates to enforcement and compliance with Supreme Court orders, not the binding nature of its legal declarations.
- (D) Article 145 – Relates to rules of Court, procedures, and minimum number of judges required to decide constitutional and other matters. It deals with procedural aspects of the Supreme Court’s functioning.
