The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The Indian Constitution establishes an independent judiciary as the guardian of the Constitution and the protector of Fundamental Rights. This protective role is not merely declarative but is backed by specific enforcement mechanisms provided within the Constitution itself.Analysis:
- Assertion (A) is Correct: The judiciary acts as the custodian of Fundamental Rights, ensuring that the State does not violate the liberties guaranteed to citizens. The Supreme Court is specifically designated as the guarantor and defender of these rights.
- Reason (R) is Correct: The Constitution explicitly empowers the Supreme Court (under Article 32) and the High Courts (under Article 226) to issue writs-Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, and Quo-Warranto-for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights.
- Justification for Option (a): The Assertion states the role of the judiciary (protection of rights), and the Reason identifies the specific constitutional power (writ jurisdiction) that enables the judiciary to perform this role. The power to issue writs is the means by which the protection is enforced. Therefore, R is the correct explanation of A.
Key Takeaway: The Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32) makes Fundamental Rights justiciable by empowering the judiciary to issue writs, thereby transforming the courts into effective protectors of individual liberty.