What is Article 142?
Historical Background
Key Points
9 points- 1.
Grants the Supreme Court the power to issue orders necessary for 'doing complete justice'
- 2.
Orders are enforceable throughout the territory of India
- 3.
Operates until legislation is enacted to cover the field
- 4.
Can override existing laws to ensure justice
- 5.
Used in cases where existing laws are inadequate or create injustice
- 6.
Visual Insights
Article 142: Supreme Court's Power to Do 'Complete Justice'
This mind map elucidates Article 142, an extraordinary power of the Supreme Court to deliver 'complete justice', covering its nature, scope, limitations, and significant applications, including the recent West Bengal electoral dispute.
Article 142 (Supreme Court's Power)
- ●Core Principle ('Complete Justice')
- ●Nature of Power
- ●Enforceability
- ●Landmark Applications
- ●Debate & Critique (Judicial Activism)
Supreme Court's Extraordinary Powers: Article 142 vs. Article 32
This table compares two significant powers of the Supreme Court – Article 142 (to do complete justice) and Article 32 (writ jurisdiction for Fundamental Rights) – highlighting their distinct purposes and applications.
| Feature | Article 142 (Complete Justice) | Article 32 (Writ Jurisdiction) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To do 'complete justice' in any pending matter |
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Mar 2026 to Mar 2026
Source Topic
Supreme Court Intervenes in Bengal Electoral Roll Dispute, Highlights EC Staffing Gaps
Polity & GovernanceUPSC Relevance
Frequently Asked Questions
121. What is Article 142 and its constitutional basis?
Article 142 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Supreme Court to pass any decree or order necessary for doing complete justice in any cause or matter pending before it. Its constitutional basis lies in Part V, Chapter IV of the Constitution (The Union Judiciary).
2. What are the key provisions of Article 142?
As per the concept, Article 142 grants the Supreme Court the power to issue orders necessary for 'doing complete justice'. These orders are enforceable throughout the territory of India and can override existing laws to ensure justice. It operates until legislation is enacted to cover the field and is used in cases where existing laws are inadequate or create injustice.
- •Power to issue orders for 'doing complete justice'
- •Orders enforceable throughout India
- •Can override existing laws
