Article 124 of the Indian Constitution
Title: Establishment and constitution of Supreme Court
📜 What Article 124 Says:
Article 124 provides the foundation for the establishment, composition, and appointment of judges to the Supreme Court of India.
✅ Key Provisions of Article 124:
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Establishment of the Supreme Court:
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There shall be a Supreme Court of India, consisting of:
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One Chief Justice of India (CJI), and
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A number of other judges as Parliament may decide by law.
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Appointment of Judges:
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Appointed by the President of India.
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The President must consult the Chief Justice of India and other judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts as deemed necessary.
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The CJI is appointed by the President after consultation with senior judges.
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Qualifications to Become a Supreme Court Judge:
A person must:
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Be a citizen of India, and
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Have been a High Court judge for at least 5 years, or
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Have been an advocate in a High Court for at least 10 years, or
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Be a distinguished jurist, in the opinion of the President.
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Tenure and Retirement:
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Judges hold office until the age of 65 years.
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Can resign by writing to the President.
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Can be removed only by impeachment (as per Article 124(4)).
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Removal of Judges (Impeachment):
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A judge of the Supreme Court can be removed by the President only:
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On grounds of proved misbehavior or incapacity, and
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Through a special majority resolution passed by both Houses of Parliament (Article 124(4)).
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Oath or Affirmation:
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Judges take an oath before the President of India.
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🏛️ Why Article 124 Is Important:
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It is the constitutional basis for the Supreme Court, the highest judicial body in India.
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Ensures judicial independence, through:
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Fixed tenure
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Difficult removal process
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Security of salary and privileges
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Protects the rule of law and fundamental rights.
🧾 Example:
If a new Chief Justice of India has to be appointed, the President appoints them after consultation with existing senior judges, under Article 124(2).
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