Question

Which of the following is protector of Fundamental Rights?

• A. Parliament
• B. President
• C. Prime Minister
• D. Supreme Court

Hint:

Remember Dr. Ambedkar's words about Article 32 being the 'heart and soul' of the Constitution. This is because it gives teeth to the Fundamental Rights by making the Supreme Court their ultimate protector.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the institution that acts as the guardian or protector of the Fundamental Rights of citizens.
Step 2: Key Concept:
The Constitution not only grants Fundamental Rights but also provides a mechanism for their enforcement. This enforcement role is entrusted to the judiciary.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The Supreme Court is designated as the protector and guarantor of the Fundamental Rights.
Article 32 of the Constitution (Right to Constitutional Remedies) gives citizens the right to move the Supreme Court directly for the enforcement of their Fundamental Rights. The Supreme Court has the power to issue various writs (Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, and Quo Warranto) for this purpose.
Similarly, Article 226 empowers the High Courts to enforce Fundamental Rights. Because of this power of judicial review and the ability to issue writs, the judiciary, and specifically the Supreme Court at the apex, is known as the protector of Fundamental Rights.
Step 4: Final Answer
The Supreme Court is the protector of Fundamental Rights.