Concept:
Writs are extraordinary remedies issued by the Supreme Court (Article 32) and High Courts (Article 226) to protect fundamental rights. While most writs are directed at public authorities, 'Habeas Corpus' is an exception.
Step 1: Analyzing the scope of writs.
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Quo Warranto, Certiorari, and Prohibition: These writs are essentially directed at public officials or judicial bodies to question the legality of their office, or to correct/prohibit their jurisdiction.
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Habeas Corpus: Literally meaning "to have the body." It is issued to anyone who has wrongfully detained another person.
Step 2: The legality of Habeas Corpus against private parties.
Since 'Habeas Corpus' is meant to protect personal liberty, it can be issued against both the State (the police/jailers) and a private individual who may be holding someone in illegal confinement.
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Writ applicable to private individuals = Habeas Corpus
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Habeas Corpus
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