Part V - The Union • Article

Article 131 Simplified: Original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

Article 131 makes the Supreme Court the 'Supreme Referee' of India. Usually, cases start in small courts and go up. But if there is a fight between the Central Government and a State, or between two States, they don't go to small courts—they go directly to the Supreme Court. It ensures that big arguments between governments are solved fairly at the highest level.

Official Text

Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the Supreme Court shall, to the exclusion of any other court, have original jurisdiction in any dispute- (a) between the Government of India and one or more States; or (b) between the Government of India and any State or States on one side and one or more other States on the other; or (c) between two or more States, if and in so far as the dispute involves any question (whether of law or fact) on which the existence or extent of a legal right depends: [Provided that the said jurisdiction shall not extend to a dispute arising out of any treaty, agreement, covenant, engagement, sanad or other similar instrument which, having been entered into or executed before the commencement of this Constitution, continues in operation after such commencement, or which provides that the said jurisdiction shall not extend to such a dispute.]

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

If two states (like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka) have a big fight, or if a state fights with the Central government, they go to the Supreme Court. It's the only place for 'Mega Fights' between leaders.

Student Mode

Original Jurisdiction of the SC; covers disputes between Union and States or between States.

Example

If the Center passes a law that a State believes violates its own powers, like a specific farm or tax law, the State can sue the Center directly in the Supreme Court under Article 131.

Key Takeaway

The Supreme Court is the referee for fights between the Center and the States.

FAQs

Can a citizen file a case under Article 131?

No, this is only for disputes BETWEEN governments. Citizens use Article 32.

If two states fight over a bridge, where do they go?

Straight to the Supreme Court under Article 131.

Quiz

Art 131 is for disputes between:

Answer: Governments