Question

Which one of the following is true?

• A. A bench of the Supreme Court of India was set up in Mumbai
• B. A bench of the Supreme Court of India was set up in Kolkata
• C. The Supreme Court has consistently not agreed for setting up benches of the Supreme Court outside Delhi
• D. A bench of the Supreme Court of India was set up in Chennai

Hint:

While the Chief Justice has the power to suggest other locations under Article 130, it requires Presidential approval, and so far, the judiciary has preferred to stay centralized to maintain uniform interpretation of the law.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: The location or "seat" of the Supreme Court of India is a constitutional matter. While there have been numerous demands from various states and Law Commissions for regional benches to increase access to justice, the Supreme Court itself has maintained a specific stance on its centralized location.

Step 1: Constitutional Provision regarding the Seat.
Article 130 of the Constitution of India deals with the seat of the Supreme Court. It states: "The Supreme Court shall sit in Delhi or in such other place or places, as the Chief Justice of India may, with the approval of the President, from time to time, appoint."

Step 2: The Stance of the Judiciary.
Despite recommendations from the Law Commission (such as the 229th Report) suggesting the creation of regional benches in cities like Chennai, Mumbai, and Kolkata, the Supreme Court has consistently rejected these proposals. The Court argues that regional benches would:
• Dilute the status and majesty of the Supreme Court as a unitary institution.
• Create conflicting judgments between different regional benches.
• Alter the character of the Supreme Court from a constitutional court to a regular court of appeal.

Step 3: Current Reality.
To date, no bench of the Supreme Court has ever been set up outside Delhi. All cases must be filed and argued at the main seat in New Delhi. Therefore, Option (C) is the only statement that reflects the actual and consistent history of the institution. Final Answer: Option C