Prime Minister Modi Releases Commemorative Stamp for 75 Years of Supreme Court

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a commemorative postage stamp celebrating 75 years of the Supreme Court of India during the inaugural session of the District Judges Conference at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event was attended by Supreme Court Chief Justice Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud, Minister of Law & Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, and other dignitaries.

Significance of the Stamp

The stamp honors the Supreme Court’s pivotal role in India’s judicial system, established on January 28, 1950. It symbolizes the Court’s contributions to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding citizens’ rights, and ensuring justice across the nation.

Department of Posts’ Role

Issued by the Department of Posts under the Ministry of Communications, the stamp commemorates the Supreme Court’s enduring legacy and marks a significant milestone in India’s judicial history, reflecting its seven and a half decades of commitment to justice and legal integrity.

Supreme Court : Key points

Establishment: The Supreme Court of India is the apex judicial body under the Constitution of India. Article 124 of the Constitution states that “There shall be a Supreme Court of India.” The Supreme Court came into existence on 26 January 1950 with the coming into force of the Constitution. The Supreme Court initially functioned from the old Parliament House till it moved to the present building located on Tilak Marg, New Delhi in 1958.

On 28 January 1950, two days after India became a Sovereign Democratic Republic, the Supreme Court was inaugurated. The inauguration took place in the Chamber of Princes in the old Parliament building where the Federal Court of India sat for 12 years from 1937 to 1950.

Chief Justice: The first Chief Justice was Harilal Jekisundas Kania.

Jurisdiction: The Court has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdictions. It handles constitutional, civil, and criminal matters.

Composition: The Supreme Court is composed of the Chief Justice of India and a maximum of 33 other judges, appointed by the President of India.

Location: The Supreme Court is located in New Delhi.

Functions: It ensures the protection of fundamental rights, resolves disputes between states and the central government, and interprets the Constitution of India.

Significance: The Supreme Court plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law, safeguarding human rights, and shaping legal and constitutional precedents in India.

Judicial Review: The Court has the power of judicial review to ensure laws and executive actions conform to the Constitution.