Part VI: The States

Chapter V - The High Courts in the States

Article 214: High Courts for States

Original Article:

(214) High Courts for States — There shall be a High Court for each State.

Amendments:

² The bracket and figure "(1)" omitted by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956, s. 29 and Sch. (w.e.f. 1-11-1956).

³ Cls. (2) and (3) omitted by s. 29 and Sch., ibid. (w.e.f. 1-11-1956).

Explanation:

Article 214 establishes the requirement for a High Court in each state, ensuring localized and accessible judicial remedies. Its omission of clauses through amendments emphasizes flexibility in judicial arrangements.

Fundamental Aspects:

1. Clause (1) - Original Provision:

This clause initially mandated High Courts in every state, later omitted in 1956 to allow flexible judicial administration.

2. Shared High Courts:

The Seventh Amendment facilitated shared High Courts among states, reflecting judicial efficiency without undermining autonomy.

3. Real-Life Examples:

Shared High Courts like Punjab and Haryana High Court highlight practical implementation.

Key Amendments and Historical Impact:

The Seventh Amendment Act, 1956 emerged as part of the States Reorganization Act, allowing states to share High Courts where appropriate, thereby enhancing judicial efficiency.

Further real-life examples, such as the Bombay Reorganization Act, 1960, and the creation of the Punjab and Haryana High Court post-1966, illustrate its application.

Debates and Deliberations:

On June 6, 1949, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar introduced an amendment to the draft Article 191, formalizing the requirement for High Courts in states. The amendment was adopted without further debate, forming the basis for Article 214.

References:

• The Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956.
• Punjab Reorganization Act, 1966.
• The States Reorganization Act, 1956.
• Bombay Reorganization Act, 1960.