The correct option is Hear appeals from lower courts and issue writs..
Explanation
The High Court is the highest judicial authority in a State. It derives its powers from the Constitution of India, possessing original, writ, appellate, and supervisory jurisdictions. It acts as the protector of Fundamental Rights and the primary court of appeal within the state hierarchy.Option Analysis:
- Hear appeals from lower courts and issue writs. is Correct. The High Court has Appellate Jurisdiction to hear appeals against the judgments of subordinate courts (District Courts, Sessions Courts, etc.) in both civil and criminal matters. Additionally, under Article 226, High Courts have the power to issue writs (Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Certiorari, Prohibition, and Quo Warranto) for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights and for "any other purpose."
- Advise the President on constitutional matters. is Incorrect. The power to advise the President on questions of law or fact (Advisory Jurisdiction) is vested exclusively in the Supreme Court under Article 143. High Courts do not possess advisory jurisdiction.
- Remove judges of the District Courts. is Incorrect. While the High Court exercises administrative control over subordinate courts (Article 235), the power to appoint, post, promote, and remove District Judges rests with the Governor of the State, in consultation with the High Court (Article 233). The High Court recommends disciplinary action, but the formal removal order is issued by the Governor.
- Decide disputes between two different States. is Incorrect. Disputes between two or more States (federal disputes) fall under the exclusive Original Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court as per Article 131. High Courts do not adjudicate inter-state disputes.
Key Takeaway:
High Courts exercise Writ Jurisdiction (Article 226) which is wider than that of the Supreme Court, and Appellate Jurisdiction over lower courts. Exclusive powers like Advisory Jurisdiction and Original Jurisdiction over federal disputes belong to the Supreme Court.