The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The administration of justice and revenue at the district and sub-district levels involves a distinction between Executive Magistrates (Revenue Officers) and Judicial Magistrates. While Revenue Officers handle land and administrative matters, Judicial Officers preside over civil and criminal trials under the supervision of the High Court.-
Assertion (A): Correct
The Tehsildar is the principal Revenue Officer at the Tehsil (sub-district) level. One of their primary duties involves the maintenance of land records and the collection of land revenue. In this capacity, the Tehsildar acts as a Revenue Court to hear and settle disputes related to land records, mutations, and agricultural land boundaries. -
Reason (R): Incorrect
The Tehsildar is an Executive Officer appointed by the State Government (often through the State Public Service Commission), not a Judicial Officer appointed by the High Court. Judicial Officers, such as Civil Judges and District Judges, are part of the State Judicial Service and are appointed in consultation with or under the control of the High Court (as per Articles 233–235 of the Constitution). Tehsildars do not preside over general civil litigation; their quasi-judicial powers are limited to specific revenue matters defined by the Land Revenue Code of the respective state.
Key Takeaway: A Tehsildar is an Executive Magistrate and Revenue Officer under the administrative control of the State Government, whereas Judicial Officers are part of the judiciary under the control of the High Court.