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How does the doctrine of separation of powers influence the balance of judicial review in India, particularly in relation to constitutional law, administrative law, and the protection of fundamental rights?

<h1>How the Doctrine of Separation of Powers Influences Judicial Review in India</h1>

<h2>Introduction</h2>
<p>The principle of separation of powers represents a crucial concept in the Indian Constitution that outlines the roles and authorities of the three branches of government: the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary. This doctrine not only provides a system of checks and balances among these branches but also shapes the framework of judicial review in India. The practices of judicial review are vital for preserving the balance between these power hubs, especially in domains such as constitutional law, administrative law, and the safeguarding of fundamental rights.</p>

<h2>1. Constitutional Law</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Understanding the Constitution:</strong> The judiciary, predominantly the Supreme Court, interprets constitutional clauses, guaranteeing their implementation in governance.</li>
<li><strong>Marbury vs. Madison:</strong> Although this case is not from India, its principle underlines the judiciary's role as the final adjudicator of constitutional issues in India.</li>
<li><strong>Judicial Activism:</strong> The proactive stance taken by the courts has effectively broadened the scope of constitutional liberties, particularly via public interest litigations (PILs).</li>
<li><strong>Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973):</strong> The Supreme Court established the 'Basic Structure' doctrine, thereby constraining Parliament's authority to modify the Constitution.</li>
<li><strong>Guardianship of Rights:</strong> The judiciary acts as a protector of fundamental rights against encroachment by legislative and executive branches.</li>
</ul>

<h2>2. Administrative Law</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Evaluating Administrative Decisions:</strong> The courts examine whether administrative resolutions adhere to legal and constitutional requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Principle of Natural Justice:</strong> Cases like Maneka Gandhi vs. Union of India (1978) underscore the necessity for fairness within administrative proceedings.</li>
<li><strong>Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation:</strong> The judiciary's involvement in reviewing the legitimacy of rules and regulations established by the executive ensures compliance with the law.</li>
<li><strong>Proportionality Principle:</strong> Recent judgments acknowledge the significance of balancing governmental actions with individual rights and the public good.</li>
<li><strong>Mechanism for Accountability:</strong> Judicial review operates as a safeguard against arbitrary actions by the state, ensuring that public bodies remain accountable.</li>
</ul>

<h2>3. Protection of Fundamental Rights</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Fundamental Rights as Stipulated in the Constitution:</strong> The judiciary assumes a pivotal role in interpreting and safeguarding these rights from interference by legislative or executive entities.</li>
<li><strong>Article 32:</strong> This article enables individuals to approach the Supreme Court for the enforcement of their fundamental rights.</li>
<li><strong>Broadening of Rights:</strong> Landmark judgments such as Navtej Singh Johar vs. Union of India (2018) reflect the evolving interpretation of rights within a modern framework.</li>
<li><strong>Public Interest Litigations:</strong> By allowing broader access to justice, PILs have promoted the enforcement of fundamental rights for disadvantaged groups.</li>
<li><strong>Advancement of Social Justice and Equality:</strong> The judiciary's proactive approach has encouraged social parity, addressing concerns related to gender, caste, and economic inequalities.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>The principle of separation of powers profoundly impacts the framework of judicial review in India, enhancing constitutional law, scrutinizing administrative acts, and defending fundamental rights. Through the effective exercise of judicial review, the Indian judiciary not only upholds the Constitution's integrity but also plays a significant role in the progressive transformation of a just society. This interaction among the branches is essential for cultivating democratic governance and safeguarding individual freedoms in India.</p>

This organized approach clarifies how the separation of powers supports judicial review in India while offering a comprehensive framework of cases and examples relevant to each specific area of law.

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