Explanations:The High Court system in India is a crucial part of the judicial hierarchy, serving as the principal court of original jurisdiction in each state or territory. Each High Court has a defined jurisdiction that covers one or more states or territories. The Kerala High Court, located in Ernakulam, is the highest court in the state of Kerala and also serves the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.
The jurisdiction of a High Court is determined by the Government of India, taking into account various factors such as geographical proximity, administrative convenience, and historical precedents. In the case of Kerala and Lakshadweep, the decision to have a shared High Court is based on the geographical proximity of Lakshadweep to Kerala and the administrative convenience of having a single judicial body oversee both regions.
It is important to note that while Lakshadweep is a Union Territory, it does not have its own High Court. Instead, it shares the jurisdiction of the Kerala High Court. This arrangement is not unique; other Union Territories in India, such as Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, also share the jurisdiction of the Gujarat High Court.
Understanding the jurisdiction of High Courts is essential for students preparing for competitive examinations, as questions related to the administrative and judicial systems of India are common in such exams. The Kerala High Court, therefore, serves as an example of how the judicial system is organized to ensure efficient and effective administration of justice across different regions of the country.