Home The Constitution Part V Article 144

Art. 144 Part V: The Union

Civil and Judicial Authorities to Act in Aid of the Supreme Court

Exact text — Constitution of India

All authorities, civil and judicial, in the territory of India shall act in aid of the Supreme Court.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

A short but significant Article — it places a positive constitutional DUTY on every civil and judicial authority across India to actively support and assist the Supreme Court's functioning, reinforcing its position at the apex of India's entire legal and administrative system.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This Article underscores the Supreme Court's supreme institutional standing — every government authority and court in the country has a constitutional obligation to cooperate with and support its functioning, not merely a passive obligation not to obstruct it.

Read alongside this one

Art. 129 — Supreme Court to Be a Court of Record

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 144

What happens if an authority refuses to comply with or assist a Supreme Court order?

Beyond this Article's general duty, specific non-compliance can also potentially trigger contempt of court proceedings under Article 129's inherent contempt power, providing real enforcement teeth behind this general cooperation obligation.

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The text above reproduces Article 144 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.