Supreme Court of India

Supreme Court of India

Technical Data

Stamp Set Golden Jubliees
Date of Issue November 26, 1999
Denomination Rs. 3
Quantity 700000
Perforation comb 13 x 13¼
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1722

Stamp Number IN 1783

Yvert et Tellier IN 1489

Stanley Gibbons IN 1885

Themes

Commemorative Stamp for the 50th Anniversary of the Supreme Court of India

Background:

  • Establishment: The Supreme Court of India was established by Article 124 of the Indian Constitution, coming into force on January 28, 1950. It is the highest court of the land, tasked with various jurisdictions and responsibilities.
  • Current Strength: The Supreme Court’s sanctioned strength is 26 judges, with the senior-most judge serving as the Chief Justice.

Jurisdictions and Powers:

  • Judicial Review: The Supreme Court has the authority to review legislation and executive actions to ensure they comply with the Constitution and principles of natural justice.
  • Appellate Jurisdiction: Appeals can be made to the Supreme Court from judgments or orders of High Courts if they involve substantial questions of constitutional interpretation.
  • Special Leave to Appeal: Under Article 136, the Supreme Court can grant special leave to appeal from any court or tribunal’s judgment.
  • Original Jurisdiction: The Court resolves disputes between the Government of India and States.
  • Advisory Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court provides opinions on questions of law or fact referred by the President of India under Article 143, aiding the government in matters of public importance.
  • Review Jurisdiction: The Court has the power to review its own judgments and orders.
  • Writs: The Supreme Court can issue writs (habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, certiorari) to enforce fundamental rights and has developed the “public interest litigation” to address grievances of disadvantaged individuals.

Achievements:

  • Case Management: The Supreme Court handles around 35,000 cases annually, with approximately 20,600 pending cases due to effective case management, computerization, and classification.
  • Public Importance: The Court’s functioning is crucial for upholding the Rule of Law, fundamental rights, and constitutional authorities.

Stamp Design and Purpose:

  • Commemorative Significance: The stamp marks the 50th anniversary of the Supreme Court of India, recognizing its pivotal role in Indian democracy and justice system.
  • Public Awareness: Issuing this stamp aims to enhance public understanding of the Supreme Court’s importance and its contributions to maintaining justice and constitutional values.

Usage:

  • Philatelic Collection: Appeals to collectors interested in constitutional and judicial history.
  • Educational Tool: Serves as an educational resource to inform the public about the Supreme Court’s role and its functions in safeguarding democratic values.

The issuance of this stamp celebrates the legacy and ongoing contributions of the Supreme Court of India, reflecting its role as a cornerstone of the Indian legal and constitutional system.