Introduction
Imagine a country as a large school. Just like a school has rules, teachers to guide, and a principal to make decisions, a country too needs systems to make laws, enforce them, and ensure everyone is treated fairly. In India, the Parliament and the Judiciary are two important pillars of our democracy. While the Parliament makes the rules (laws), the Judiciary makes sure these rules are followed fairly by everyone—including the government. These two bodies work together to keep our democracy functioning smoothly.
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What is the Parliament?
The Parliament of India is the highest law-making body. It has two main houses:
- Lok Sabha (House of the People) – Members are directly elected by the citizens of India.
- Rajya Sabha (Council of States) – Members are elected by the elected members of state legislatures.
These two houses debate, discuss, and pass laws that affect every Indian. They also monitor the government’s work by asking questions, raising issues, and making sure public money is used properly. Parliament is a place where the voice of the people is heard through their elected representatives.
What is the Judiciary?
The Judiciary is the system of courts in India. Its main role is to interpret laws, resolve disputes, and protect the rights of citizens. It ensures that no law or government action goes against the Indian Constitution.
The Supreme Court is the highest court, followed by High Courts in states, and District Courts across cities. Judges are trained legal experts who make decisions fairly and without bias.
Why Are These Roles Important?
Just like a cricket match needs both rules and umpires, a country needs lawmakers and law protectors. Without the Judiciary, laws could be misused. Without the Parliament, citizens wouldn’t have a say in the laws.
The Parliament ensures people’s voices are reflected in laws, and the Judiciary ensures those laws are fair and followed by everyone, including powerful leaders.
When Do They Function?
The Parliament meets several times a year in sessions to make laws, debate important matters, and review the government’s work. These sessions are usually held three times a year: Budget, Monsoon, and Winter Sessions.
The Judiciary works year-round, hearing thousands of cases in courts big and small. Even during emergencies, courts make arrangements to provide justice to citizens.
Where Do They Operate From?
The Parliament meets in New Delhi, the capital city of India, inside the iconic Parliament House.
The Supreme Court is also located in New Delhi.
Each state has its own High Court, usually in the state capital, and there are many District and Taluka-level courts across the country to serve people locally.
How Do They Work Together?
Think of the Parliament as the one writing the rules, and the Judiciary as the one making sure those rules are fair and followed. If a law is found to go against the Constitution, the Judiciary can strike it down.
This partnership ensures a system of checks and balances—no one becomes too powerful, and citizens are always protected.
Core Concepts Table:
| Parliament (Makes Laws) | Judiciary (Protects Laws & Rights) |
| Makes new laws | Ensures laws follow the Constitution |
| Debates and discusses public issues | Solves disputes fairly |
| Controls the government | Can cancel unfair or illegal laws |
| Made up of elected leaders | Made up of trained judges |
FAQ:
Q1: Can the Judiciary stop a law passed by Parliament?
Yes. If the Judiciary finds a law against the Constitution, it can declare it invalid or unconstitutional.
Q2: Can anyone go to the Supreme Court?
Yes, any citizen can approach the Supreme Court if they feel their rights are being violated.
Q3: Who elects the Parliament members?
Lok Sabha members are elected by citizens of India. Rajya Sabha members are elected by state legislators.
Fun Facts:
- The Indian Parliament building is shaped like a giant horseshoe.
- The Supreme Court’s motto is: “Yato Dharmastato Jayah” – “Where there is justice, there is victory.”
- India’s Judiciary is independent, meaning it works without pressure from politicians or the government.
- India has one of the longest Constitutions in the world—over 100,000 words!
Conclusion
India’s democracy stands strong on two powerful legs—Parliament and Judiciary. One listens to the people and makes laws; the other ensures those laws are fair, just, and followed. They work as a team to protect citizens’ rights and build a nation based on justice, equality, and freedom. As young citizens, understanding their roles empowers us to grow into responsible future leaders who value fairness and democracy.
