Home The Constitution Part V Article 139

Art. 139 Part V: The Union

Conferment on the Supreme Court of Powers to Issue Certain Writs

Exact text — Constitution of India

Parliament may by law confer on the Supreme Court power to issue directions, orders or writs, including writs in the nature of habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto and certiorari, or any of them, for any purposes other than those mentioned in clause (2) of article 32.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article lets Parliament expand the Supreme Court's writ-issuing power BEYOND its Article 32 Fundamental Rights enforcement role — allowing the Court to issue the same five types of writs for OTHER purposes Parliament specifically authorises by law, broadening the Court's remedial toolkit.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

While Article 32 ties the Supreme Court's writ power specifically to Fundamental Rights enforcement, this Article shows Parliament retains power to expand that writ jurisdiction further for other legitimate purposes, if it chooses to legislate accordingly.

Read alongside this one

Art. 32 — Right to Constitutional Remedies

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 139

Isn't the Supreme Court's writ power already covered by Article 32?

Article 32 specifically covers writs for FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS enforcement; this separate Article allows Parliament to extend similar writ powers to the Supreme Court for other purposes beyond that specific scope.

← PreviousArticle 138: Enlargement of the Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court Next →Article 139A: Transfer of Certain Cases

The text above reproduces Article 139 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.