Article 129 of the Indian Constitution
Title: Supreme Court to be a court of record
📜 Text of Article 129:
“The Supreme Court shall be a court of record and shall have all the powers of such a court including the power to punish for contempt of itself.”
✅ Key Provisions Explained:
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Supreme Court as a Court of Record:
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A court of record means:
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Its judgments, proceedings, and acts are preserved permanently for future reference and have evidentiary value.
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Its records cannot be questioned when produced before any court.
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Power to Punish for Contempt:
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The Supreme Court has the constitutional authority to punish individuals for:
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Contempt of court, including:
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Disrespecting the court,
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Obstructing judicial proceedings,
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Scandalizing the authority of the court.
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Binding Nature:
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Decisions of the Supreme Court are binding on all courts in India (Article 141), and its role as a court of record ensures legal consistency and authority.
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🏛️ Why Article 129 Is Important:
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Ensures the dignity and authority of the Supreme Court is protected.
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Allows the Court to enforce discipline and respect in legal proceedings.
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Establishes the Supreme Court’s permanence and supremacy in the Indian judicial system.
🧾 Example:
If someone makes false allegations that harm the dignity of the Supreme Court or defies its orders, the Court can take suo motu (on its own) action under Article 129 and punish for contempt.
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