Correct Option
The correct option is When a lower court has considered a case going beyond its jurisdiction..
Explanation
The writ of Prohibition is a judicial writ issued by a superior court (Supreme Court or High Court) to an inferior court or quasi-judicial tribunal. Its primary objective is to prevent the lower court from usurping jurisdiction that it does not possess or from acting in excess of its authorized jurisdiction.
Option Analysis
- When a lower court has considered a case going beyond its jurisdiction. is Correct: The writ of Prohibition is issued specifically when a lower court or tribunal attempts to proceed with a case that falls outside its legal jurisdiction. It acts as a "stay order" to stop the proceedings immediately, ensuring the court does not exceed its judicial limits.
- When a public official refuses to perform a mandatory duty. is Incorrect: When a public official or body refuses to perform a mandatory public duty, the appropriate writ is Mandamus (meaning "We Command"). Mandamus directs the authority to perform the duty they have failed to discharge.
- When an individual is detained unlawfully by the police. is Incorrect: When an individual is detained unlawfully by the state or a private individual, the writ of Habeas Corpus (meaning "To have the body") is issued to examine the legality of the detention and secure release if the detention is found illegal.
- When a lower court refuses to transfer a case to the higher court. is Incorrect: The refusal of a lower court to transfer a case is not the specific ground for the writ of Prohibition. While higher courts have the power to transfer cases, Prohibition is strictly concerned with stopping active proceedings where jurisdiction is lacking.
Key Takeaway
Prohibition is preventive in nature and is issued only while proceedings are pending to stop a lower court from continuing. In contrast, Certiorari is both preventive and curative, often issued after an order is passed to quash the decision.