Question

Assertion A : Power of judicial review is considered as part of the basic structure of the Constitution.
Reason R : The Supreme Court is endowed with the power of judicial review to ensure judicial independence and protection of rights.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below :

• A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
• B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
• C. A is correct but R is not correct
• D. A is not correct but R is correct

Hint:

Use the "Because Test": Judicial review is basic structure \textit{because} it protects rights and ensures independence. The sentence makes perfect sense, so R is the correct explanation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Judicial review is the power of the judiciary to examine the constitutionality of legislative acts and executive orders.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Assertion A is correct: In various cases like Kesavananda Bharati and Minerva Mills, the SC held that judicial review is an unalterable feature of the Basic Structure.
- Reason R is correct: The purpose of this power is to act as a check on other branches and safeguard fundamental rights.
Because the judiciary's role as the protector of the constitution and rights (as stated in R) is fundamental to the constitutional scheme, it is considered part of the basic structure (as stated in A).
Step 3: Final Answer:
Both are correct and R explains A.