Article 135 of the Indian Constitution
Title: Jurisdiction and powers of the Federal Court under existing law to be exercisable by the Supreme Court
📜 Text Summary:
Until Parliament by law provides otherwise, the Supreme Court shall also have jurisdiction and powers that were exercised by the Federal Court under any existing law before the commencement of the Constitution.
✅ Key Points Explained:
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🏛️ Historical Background:
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Before the Supreme Court was established in 1950, British India had a “Federal Court” under the Government of India Act, 1935.
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That Federal Court handled disputes between provinces and the central government, and appeals from High Courts.
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⚖️ Continuity of Jurisdiction:
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Article 135 ensures that the powers and functions of the Federal Court automatically transferred to the Supreme Court after the Constitution came into effect.
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🧾 Parliament’s Role:
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Parliament can change or modify this jurisdiction by making new laws.
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Until then, the Supreme Court continues to exercise those powers as per pre-Constitution laws.
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🏛️ Why Article 135 Is Important:
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Provides a smooth transition from colonial judicial structures to the modern Supreme Court.
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Ensures continuity of justice and no legal vacuum after independence.
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Preserves pending legal procedures and jurisdiction under older laws until replaced or repealed.
🧾 Example:
If a legal case was pending in the Federal Court of India at the time the Constitution was adopted, that case would automatically transfer to the Supreme Court, and the SC would have all the powers to deal with it under Article 135.
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