Constitution of IndiaPart IIIFundamental Right

Article 32

Remedies for Enforcement of Rights Conferred by this Part

writhabeas corpusmandamuscertiorariprohibitionquo warrantoSupreme Courtenforcementfundamental rights

Plain English Explanation

Article 32 is called the "heart and soul of the Constitution" (Dr. B.R. Ambedkar). It gives citizens the right to approach the Supreme Court directly if their fundamental rights are violated. The Supreme Court can issue five types of writs: (1) Habeas Corpus — produce the body (unlawful detention), (2) Mandamus — command to perform public duty, (3) Prohibition — stop inferior court from exceeding jurisdiction, (4) Certiorari — quash order of inferior court, (5) Quo Warranto — show authority for holding public office.

Legal Text

The Constitution of India · Article 32

(1) The right to move the Supreme Court by appropriate proceedings for the enforcement of the rights conferred by this Part is guaranteed. (2) The Supreme Court shall have power to issue directions or orders or writs, including writs in the nature of habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto and certiorari, whichever may be appropriate, for the enforcement of any of the rights conferred by this Part.