The correct option is 3 only.
Explanation
The Constitution of India empowers the judiciary to issue writs for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights and, in certain cases, for other legal rights. This power is vested in the Supreme Court under Article 32 and the High Courts under Article 226. These writs are prerogative remedies intended to ensure accountability and protect the rights of citizens.
Statement 1 is Incorrect:
The power to issue writs for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights is not exclusive to the Supreme Court. Article 226 of the Constitution empowers High Courts to issue writs including Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Quo Warranto, and Certiorari. In fact, the writ jurisdiction of the High Court is wider than that of the Supreme Court, as High Courts can issue writs for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights as well as for "any other purpose" (i.e., enforcement of ordinary legal rights).
Statement 2 is Incorrect:
Article 32 is itself a Fundamental Right (Right to Constitutional Remedies). It guarantees the right to move the Supreme Court directly for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights. There is no constitutional compulsion for an aggrieved individual to first approach the High Court. While the Supreme Court may, as a rule of prudence or self-restraint, ask a petitioner to approach the High Court first, the petitioner is not legally barred from approaching the Supreme Court directly.
Statement 3 is Correct:
Writs are essentially judicial commands or orders. They allow the higher judiciary to direct the executive (or other authorities) to perform a specific legal duty (Mandamus) or to refrain from acting in a manner that exceeds their jurisdiction (Prohibition). This mechanism serves as a crucial check on administrative actions and ensures the rule of law.
Key Takeaway:
The Supreme Court (Article 32) and High Courts (Article 226) have concurrent jurisdiction regarding the enforcement of Fundamental Rights. However, the High Court's jurisdiction is wider in scope (covering legal rights), while the Supreme Court's jurisdiction is limited to Fundamental Rights but is a guaranteed remedy.