Why is the independence of the judiciary considered essential for democracy? 1. The independence of the judiciary prevents the misuse of power by the legislature and the executive. 2. The judiciary has no role in protecting the Fundamental Rights of citizens. 3. It ensures that courts act on behalf of the ruling government. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is (a). Explanation The independence of the judiciary is a cornerstone of a democratic political system. It implies that the other organs of the government-the executive and the legislature-must not restrain the functioning of the judiciary in such a way that it is unable to do justice. It ensures that judges can perform their duties without fear or favour. Statement-wise Analysis: - Statement 1 is Correct: The primary purpose of judicial independence is to ensure the separation of powers. An independent judiciary acts as a check on the other two branches of government, preventing the misuse of power by the legislature and the executive. This balance is essential for maintaining the Rule of Law. - Statement 2 is Incorrect: The judiciary plays a central role in protecting the Fundamental Rights of citizens. Under the Constitution of India (specifically Articles 32 and 226), the Supreme Court and High Courts are empowered to issue writs for the enforcement of these rights. The judiciary is often referred to as the guardian of the Constitution and Fundamental Rights. - Statement 3 is Incorrect: Judicial independence ensures that courts do not act on behalf of the ruling government or any political party. Instead, they are expected to adjudicate disputes impartially, based on the law and the Constitution, without political interference or pressure. Key Takeaway: The independence of the judiciary is essential to uphold the Rule of Law, ensure the separation of powers, and act as the guarantor of Fundamental Rights against state excess.

NCERT Class 8 Political Science — Chapter 4: Judiciary

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Why is the independence of the judiciary considered essential for democracy?

The independence of the judiciary prevents the misuse of power by the legislature and the executive.
The judiciary has no role in protecting the Fundamental Rights of citizens.
It ensures that courts act on behalf of the ruling government.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 only
B2 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (a).

Explanation

The independence of the judiciary is a cornerstone of a democratic political system. It implies that the other organs of the government-the executive and the legislature-must not restrain the functioning of the judiciary in such a way that it is unable to do justice. It ensures that judges can perform their duties without fear or favour.

Statement-wise Analysis:

Statement 1 is Correct: The primary purpose of judicial independence is to ensure the separation of powers. An independent judiciary acts as a check on the other two branches of government, preventing the misuse of power by the legislature and the executive. This balance is essential for maintaining the Rule of Law.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: The judiciary plays a central role in protecting the Fundamental Rights of citizens. Under the Constitution of India (specifically Articles 32 and 226), the Supreme Court and High Courts are empowered to issue writs for the enforcement of these rights. The judiciary is often referred to as the guardian of the Constitution and Fundamental Rights.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: Judicial independence ensures that courts do not act on behalf of the ruling government or any political party. Instead, they are expected to adjudicate disputes impartially, based on the law and the Constitution, without political interference or pressure.

Key Takeaway:
The independence of the judiciary is essential to uphold the Rule of Law, ensure the separation of powers, and act as the guarantor of Fundamental Rights against state excess.

Your note

More from Chapter 4: Judiciary

Consider the following statements regarding the concept of the 'Rule of Law' in the Indian context: 1. The Rule of Law implies that laws apply equally to all persons without discrimination. 2. The Rule of Law allows the government to change legal procedures arbitrarily for different individuals. 3. The judiciary acts as an independent body to enforce the rule of law. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The judiciary in India performs which of the following broad functions? 1. The judiciary is prohibited from resolving disputes between citizens. 2. The judiciary has the power of Judicial Review. 3. The judiciary is responsible for upholding the law and enforcing Fundamental Rights. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to 'Dispute Resolution' by the judiciary, the system provides a mechanism for resolving disputes between: 1. Disputes between citizens. 2. Disputes between citizens and the government. 3. Disputes between two or more state governments. 4. Disputes between the Centre and state governments. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Consider the following statements regarding 'Judicial Review': 1. Judicial Review empowers the judiciary to strike down particular laws passed by the Parliament. 2. This power can be exercised only if the law is related to criminal justice. 3. It makes the Parliament the final interpreter of the Constitution. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Assertion (A): The judiciary in India plays a crucial role in the protection of Fundamental Rights. Reason (R): The Constitution empowers the Supreme Court and High Courts to issue writs for the enforcement of these rights.

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The correct option is (a).

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis:

Statement 1 is Correct: The primary purpose of judicial independence is to ensure the separation of powers. An independent judiciary acts as a check on the other two branches of government, preventing the misuse of power by the legislature and the executive. This balance is essential for maintaining the Rule of Law.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: The judiciary plays a central role in protecting the Fundamental Rights of citizens. Under the Constitution of India (specifically Articles 32 and 226), the Supreme Court and High Courts are empowered to issue writs for the enforcement of these rights. The judiciary is often referred to as the guardian of the Constitution and Fundamental Rights.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: Judicial independence ensures that courts do not act on behalf of the ruling government or any political party. Instead, they are expected to adjudicate disputes impartially, based on the law and the Constitution, without political interference or pressure.