Top 10 Remarkable Features the Supreme Court of India That Define Its Power and Legacy
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1. Symbolic Architecture ("Scales of Justice") ⚖️
The building’s layout resembles a scale: a central dome with a courtroom flanked by two wings symbolizing balance—justice’s core value .
2. Iconic Central Dome & 15 Courtrooms
Placed atop the main chamber, the 27.6 m-high dome is supported by a structure housing 15 courtrooms spread across central, right (Bar/library), and left wings .
3. Court of Record & Contempt Powers
Authorized by Articles 129 & 142, the Supreme Court preserves its proceedings permanently and has the authority to punish contempt, including imprisonment or fines .
4. Three‑Tier Jurisdiction
Original jurisdiction: Settles disputes between states or the Union and states (Art. 131)
Appellate jurisdiction: Hears constitutional, civil, and criminal appeals (Arts. 132–134)
Advisory jurisdiction: Offers opinions when referred by the President (Art. 143) .
5. Protector of Fundamental Rights
Using its Article 32 writ powers, the Court directly enforces fundamental rights (habeas corpus, mandamus, certiorari, etc.) .
6. Judicial Review & Basic Structure Doctrine
It can invalidate laws or amendments inconsistent with the Constitution, upholding core principles that cannot be amended .
7. Special Leave Petitions (SLPs)
Under Article 136, the Court has discretionary power to hear appeals from any court/tribunal nationwide, which makes SLPs a principal mode of appeal .
8. Constitution Benches
High-stakes cases involving constitutional interpretation are heard by Benches of 5+ judges, as mandated by Article 145(3) .
9. Appointment via Collegium
Judges (including the CJI) are appointed through the collegium system—comprising the Chief Justice and four senior judges—ensuring judicial independence .
10. Guardian of the Federal Structure
By overseeing centre–state disputes, transferring cases between High Courts, and checking central legislative/executive overreach, the Court plays an integral role
in preserving federal balance .
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