How many high courts are there in India?
VerifiedAnswer: 25
Explanation:
India currently has 25 High Courts that serve as the highest judicial authority at the state and regional levels. These courts play a crucial role in India's three-tier judicial system, positioned between the Supreme Court at the top and the subordinate courts at the district level.
The establishment of High Courts in India began during the British colonial period. The first three High Courts were set up in 1862 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), Bombay (now Mumbai), and Madras (now Chennai). Over the years, especially after India's independence in 1947, more High Courts were established to meet the growing judicial needs of different states and union territories.
Each High Court has jurisdiction over one or more states or union territories. For example, the Delhi High Court serves the National Capital Territory of Delhi, while the Gauhati High Court has jurisdiction over multiple northeastern states including Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh. This arrangement ensures that judicial services are accessible across India's diverse geographical and administrative landscape.
High Courts have both original and appellate jurisdiction. In their original jurisdiction, they hear cases directly, particularly those involving constitutional matters, writ petitions, and disputes between state governments. In their appellate jurisdiction, they hear appeals from lower courts within their territorial limits. They also have the power to issue writs including habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, and others for the enforcement of fundamental rights.
The judges of High Courts are appointed by the President of India in consultation with the Chief Justice of India, the Governor of the concerned state, and the Chief Justice of the respective High Court. To be eligible as a High Court judge, a person must be a citizen of India and should have either been an advocate of a High Court for at least 10 years or held a judicial office in India for at least 10 years.
Some notable High Courts include the Allahabad High Court (which has the largest number of judges), the Bombay High Court (one of the oldest), and the Kerala High Court (known for its digital initiatives). The most recent addition was the establishment of separate High Courts for some states that previously shared jurisdiction with others, bringing the current total to 25 High Courts serving India's judicial system effectively.
