Home The Constitution Part VI Article 227

Art. 227 Part VI: The States

Power of Superintendence Over All Courts by the High Court

Exact text — Constitution of India

(1) Every High Court shall have superintendence over all courts and tribunals throughout the territories in relation to which it exercises jurisdiction. (2) Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provision, the High Court may—(a) call for returns from such courts; (b) make and issue general rules and prescribe forms for regulating the practice and proceedings of such courts; and (c) prescribe forms in which books, entries and accounts shall be kept by the officers of any such courts...

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article gives every High Court broad supervisory ('superintendence') power over all subordinate courts and tribunals within its territorial jurisdiction — including power to call for information, set procedural rules, and generally oversee the proper functioning of the entire lower judicial and quasi-judicial system in that state.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is a key administrative-oversight power distinct from the High Court's own appellate or writ jurisdiction — it lets the High Court actively supervise and regulate how lower courts and tribunals across the state actually conduct their business, ensuring consistent, proper judicial administration.

Read alongside this one

Art. 235 — Control Over Subordinate Courts

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 227

Is this the same as the High Court hearing an appeal from a lower court?

No — Article 227's 'superintendence' power is a distinct, broader ADMINISTRATIVE oversight function, while ordinary appeals go through the regular appellate hierarchy; superintendence can be exercised even to correct a jurisdictional error without it being a formal appeal.

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The text above reproduces Article 227 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.