🔍 Overview of Article 227 of the Indian Constitution
Article 227 grants High Courts the power of superintendence over all subordinate courts and tribunals within their jurisdiction. Unlike Article 226 (which deals with writs), Article 227 is broader—it allows High Courts to ensure judicial discipline, correct errors, and maintain efficiency in lower courts.
đź“Ś Key Highlights of Article 227
âś” Administrative & Judicial Control over district courts, tribunals, and quasi-judicial bodies.
âś” Corrects jurisdictional errors (beyond just legality).
✔ Not an appellate power—cannot re-examine facts like a regular appeal.
âś” Used when lower courts act arbitrarily or beyond jurisdiction.
(“Article 227 vs 226,” “superintendence power of high court,” “scope of Article 227”)
đź“ś What is Article 227? Constitutional Provisions & Scope
Article 227(1) states:
“Every High Court shall have superintendence over all courts and tribunals throughout the territories in relation to which it exercises jurisdiction.”
đź“Ś Key Features
- Not Just Judicial, But Administrative Control – High Courts can issue general guidelines to lower courts.
- Wider Than Certiorari – Unlike Article 226 (limited to legality), Article 227 corrects jurisdictional errors and procedural lapses.
- Discretionary Power – Courts use it sparingly, only in cases of grave injustice or abuse of power.
(“Can Article 227 be used against tribunals?” – Yes, as per L. Chandra Kumar v. Union of India.)
⚖️ Article 227 vs. Article 226: Key Differences
| Aspect | Article 226 (Writs) | Article 227 (Superintendence) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Enforcement of rights | Supervisory control over courts |
| Scope | Against authorities, govt, private bodies | Only over subordinate courts & tribunals |
| Nature | Judicial remedy | Administrative + Judicial |
| Appeal Alternative | Writ petitions allowed | Revision petitions under CPC/CrPC |
(LSI Keywords: “difference between article 226 and 227,” “when to use article 227”)
⚡ Landmark Judgments on Article 227
- Waryam Singh v. Amarnath (1954) – High Courts can interfere if lower courts act illegally or arbitrarily.
- Surya Dev Rai v. Ram Chander Rai (2003) – Article 227 can correct jurisdictional errors, not just legal ones.
- Shalini Shyam Shetty v. Rajendra Shankar Patil (2010) – Courts must avoid overuse of Article 227.
đź“‚ How to File a Petition Under Article 227? (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Determine Jurisdiction – File in the concerned High Court.
- Grounds for Petition – Prove grave injustice, jurisdictional error, or abuse of power.
- Draft the Petition – Include:
- Facts of the case
- Errors by the lower court
- Prayer for relief
- Submit Affidavit & Documents – Evidence supporting claims.
- Court Hearing – High Court may modify, set aside, or issue directions.
âť“ FAQs on Article 227
Q1. Can Article 227 be used against private parties?
A: No, only against subordinate courts & tribunals (unlike Article 226).
Q2. What is the limitation period for filing under Article 227?
A: No strict limit, but delay weakens the case (Doctrine of Laches applies).
Q3. Can the High Court re-examine evidence under Article 227?
A: No, it only corrects jurisdictional errors, not factual disputes.
Q4. Is Article 227 appealable?
A: Yes, to the Supreme Court under Article 136.
