The Supreme Court of India is the highest court in the country and serves as the apex judicial authority. Its jurisdiction is outlined in the Constitution of India under Article 124 to Article 147. The Supreme Court has both original and appellate jurisdiction. Here are the key aspects of the Supreme Court's jurisdiction: Original Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court has original jurisdiction in certain matters, which means it can hear cases directly without them being heard in lower courts first. This jurisdiction primarily includes disputes between the Government of India and one or more states or between states. Appellate Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court is the highest court of appeal in the country. It hears appeals from various courts and tribunals, including the High Courts, in both civil and criminal matters. It has the authority to hear appeals against judgments, orders, or decrees of lower courts, subject to certain conditions. Advisory Jurisdiction: The President of India can seek the advice of the Supreme Court on any question of law or fact of public importance. Although this is an advisory role, the court's opinion is not binding on the President. Interpretation of the Constitution: The Supreme Court has the authority to interpret the Constitution of India. It plays a crucial role in determining the constitutional validity of laws and governmental actions. Protection of Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court is the guardian of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. It can entertain writ petitions (like habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari) for the enforcement of fundamental rights. Federal Disputes: The Supreme Court has jurisdiction in federal disputes between the Union (central government) and the states or between the states. Civil and Criminal Cases: The Supreme Court has the authority to hear appeals in civil and criminal cases, and it also has the power to review its own judgments. Special Leave Petitions (SLPs): The Supreme Court has the discretionary power to grant special leave to appeal from any judgment, decree, determination, sentence, or order in any cause or matter. Public Interest Litigation (PIL): The Supreme Court can take up cases related to public interest, even suo motu (on its own motion), and issue directives for the protection of fundamental rights. The jurisdiction of the Supreme Court is extensive, covering a wide range of legal matters, and its decisions are binding on all other courts in India. The Chief Justice of India is the head of the Supreme Court, and the President of India appoints other judges based on the advice of the Chief Justice and the collegium of senior judges.