Constitutional Benches

Interpretation of the Constitution of India

Constitutional Benches of the Supreme Court are constituted to decide substantial questions relating to the interpretation of the Constitution of India under Article 145(3). These benches shape constitutional jurisprudence and define the contours of fundamental rights, federalism and separation of powers.

Jurisdiction & Scope

Article 145(3)

Matters involving substantial questions of constitutional interpretation must be heard by a bench of at least five judges.

Reference to Larger Bench

Conflicting judgments or issues of public importance are referred to larger benches for authoritative resolution.

Judicial Review

Review of constitutional validity of statutes, executive actions and constitutional amendments.

Federal & Institutional Disputes

Centre-State disputes, legislative competence and constitutional authority questions.

Bench Composition

Five-Judge Benches

Standard Constitution Bench deciding most constitutional questions.

Seven-Judge Benches

Constituted to reconsider or overrule earlier Constitution Bench decisions.

Nine-Judge Benches

Reserved for issues of the highest constitutional importance, including fundamental structure doctrines.

Constitutional Importance

Decisions of Constitutional Benches have binding effect across all courts in India and define the trajectory of constitutional law. Advocacy before such benches requires deep constitutional insight, precision and long-term jurisprudential strategy.

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Constitutional Law & Supreme Court Bench Matters