The Supreme Court described itself as the "sentinel on the qui vive" in relation to ____________.

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (A) Protection of Fundamental Rights

Explanation:

• The Supreme Court of India described itself as the "sentinel on the qui vive" in relation to the protection of fundamental rights of Indian citizens.
• The phrase "sentinel on the qui vive" refers to being ever-watchful or vigilant, indicating the Court's role in safeguarding the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India.
• This statement emphasizes the Supreme Court's responsibility to act as a protector of individual rights and liberties, ensuring that they are not infringed upon by the government or other authorities.

Information Booster:

• The Supreme Court has historically played an active role in protecting fundamental rights, particularly through judicial review and public interest litigations (PILs).
• Writs are an important mechanism for the enforcement of fundamental rights in India. The Supreme Court has the power to issue writs under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution. These writs are used to protect individuals from illegal detention, violations of their rights, or actions by the state that are unconstitutional.

Types of Writs issued by the Supreme Court:

1. Habeas Corpus:
• The most famous writ, which means "You shall have the body."
• It is issued to secure a person's release from unlawful detention or imprisonment.
2. Mandamus:
• Issued to a public authority or government body, commanding it to perform a public or statutory duty it has failed to perform.
3. Prohibition:
• Issued by a higher court to a lower court or tribunal, preventing it from exceeding its jurisdiction or making a decision that is beyond its powers.
4. Certiorari:
• Issued by a higher court to a lower court or tribunal, quashing its order or decision if it is found to be illegal, beyond jurisdiction, or in violation of legal principles.
5. Quo Warranto:
• Issued to inquire by what authority a person holds a public office. It is used to challenge the legality of a person's appointment to a public office.

Additional Knowledge:

• Option B: Protection of tax laws
• Incorrect. The Supreme Court does play a role in interpreting tax laws, but it is not described as the "sentinel" of tax laws.
• Option C: Protection of foreign policy
• Incorrect. The Court does not have a direct role in the formulation or protection of foreign policy; this is primarily the domain of the Executive.
• Option D: Protection of legislative privileges
• Incorrect. The Supreme Court protects legislative privileges, but it is more notably associated with safeguarding fundamental rights.