54th Chief Justice of Madras High Court

High Courts

• The high court represents the state’s judicial administration.
• Articles 214 to 231 in Part VI of the Constitution deal with the organization, independence, jurisdiction, powers, procedures and so on of the high courts.
• There are 25 high courts in the country, 3 of which have jurisdiction in more than one state.

• The number of judges, which consists of the chief justice and other judges, varies from state to state and is determined by the president.
• Functions
• Original jurisdiction - In certain cases, they can hear a case directly, such as those related to fundamental rights or matters transferred from lower courts.
• Appellate jurisdiction - High Court judges hear appeals against decisions made by subordinate courts (like district and sessions courts) in both civil and criminal matters.
• Writs jurisdiction - High Courts can issue various writs (like Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Quo-warranto, and Certiorari) to protect fundamental rights and ensure justice.
• Supervisory jurisdiction - High Courts have the power to supervise and control all courts and tribunals within their jurisdiction (except those dealing with the armed forces).
• Court of record - Its proceedings, judgments, and acts are officially recorded and considered permanent legal documents.
• Administrative powers- High Courts also handle administrative tasks like appointing staff, determining salaries, and making rules for subordinate courts.
• Power of judicial review - High Courts can review laws and ordinances to ensure they are consistent with the Constitution and declare them unconstitutional if they are not.