Question

The minimum number of judges required for constituting a Constitutional Bench is:

• A. 5
• B. 9
• C. 13
• D. 7

Hint:

Remember Article 145(3) — a Constitutional Bench must have at least 5 judges of the Supreme Court to hear cases involving interpretation of the Constitution.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

A Constitutional Bench in the Supreme Court of India is formed to decide substantial questions of law related to the interpretation of the Constitution. As per Article 145(3) of the Constitution of India, a minimum of five judges is required to form such a bench.

These benches are generally constituted when:

• There is a need to interpret constitutional provisions.
• There is a conflict between previous decisions of the Supreme Court that needs resolution.
• Important public interest matters concerning constitutional validity arise.

While five is the minimum, benches may also be composed of 7, 9, or even more judges depending on the importance and complexity of the issue.