Discuss the grounds on which administrative action may be reviewed by the judiciary, and the various modes of such judicial review.
In short
Courts review administrative action for violation of fundamental rights, excess or lack of jurisdiction, breach of natural justice, and arbitrariness under Article 14, as held in the Royappa case. They do so through writs under Articles 32 and 226, statutory appeals and tribunals, and review and curative petitions.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 254 words
Violation of Fundamental Rights
Administrative actions violating Part III rights, such as equality (Article 14) or life and liberty (Article 21), invite review; the Sabarimala case tested constitutional morality against religious autonomy.
Excess or Lack of Jurisdiction
Courts ensure authorities act within delegated powers, as in State of W.B. v. Shivananda Pathak.
Violation of Natural Justice
Procedural fairness is mandatory; failure leads to quashing of decisions.
Arbitrariness and Unreasonableness
Article 14 prohibits arbitrary actions, per E.P. Royappa judgment.
Writ Jurisdiction
Supreme Court and High Courts use writs like certiorari, mandamus, and habeas corpus to check administrative excesses.
Constitutional Provisions
Articles 32 and 226 empower courts to hear petitions against administrative actions violating fundamental rights, with High Courts playing a key role in Andhra Pradesh.
Statutory Tribunals
The Administrative Tribunals Act, 1985, offers specialized forums for administrative disputes, significant in Andhra Pradesh.
Review and Curative Petitions
The Supreme Court can review its judgments under Article 137, ensuring justice, as in Rupa Ashok Hurra v. Ashok Hurra.
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