Correct Option
The correct option is Decisions made by the Supreme Court are binding on all other courts within the territory of India.
Explanation
The Constitution of India establishes a single, integrated, and unified judicial system. Unlike a federal judicial system (such as in the USA) where separate federal and state courts exist, India follows a pyramidal structure with the Supreme Court at the apex. This structure ensures uniformity in the interpretation and application of laws across the country.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Decisions made by the Supreme Court are binding on all This statement reflects the mandate of Article 141 of the Constitution, which states that the law declared by the Supreme Court shall be binding on all courts within the territory of India. This vertical integration, where the apex court's rulings constitute the law of the land for all lower courts, is the defining feature of a unified judiciary.
- State High Courts can overturn the decisions of the Supreme Court in matters of State lists. is Incorrect: The Supreme Court is the final court of appeal. High Courts function below the Supreme Court in the judicial hierarchy. While High Courts have wide jurisdiction, they cannot overturn decisions made by the Supreme Court. Conversely, the Supreme Court has the appellate jurisdiction to reverse High Court judgments.
- The Supreme Court cannot review its own decisions once a judgment is passed. is Incorrect: Under Article 137, the Supreme Court is empowered to review any judgment pronounced or order made by it. The Court is not strictly bound by its own previous decisions and may revisit them to correct errors or adapt to changing legal contexts.
- Civil and judicial authorities are independent of the Supreme Court's aid. is Incorrect: Article 144 explicitly mandates that all authorities, civil and judicial, in the territory of India shall act in aid of the Supreme Court. This ensures the enforceability and efficacy of the Supreme Court's orders throughout the country.
Key Takeaway
Article 141 establishes the unified nature of the Indian judiciary by making the law declared by the Supreme Court binding on all courts in India, ensuring a single hierarchy enforces both Central and State laws.