Concept:
The appointment mechanism for judges to the Supreme Court of India ensures the independence of the judiciary while maintaining a system of checks and balances across the branches of government.
Step 1: Reviewing constitutional provisions under Article 124.
Under Article 124(2) of the Constitution of India, every Judge of the Supreme Court is officially appointed by the President of India by warrant under his hand and seal.
Step 2: Understanding the consultation process.
While the President issues the official appointment, they act on the recommendations of the Supreme Court Collegium, which consists of the Chief Justice of India and the four senior-most judges of the court. The legislature (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) plays no direct role in appointing judges.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Because the final appointing authority is the executive head of the state, Option (D) is the correct answer.