Which court has the authority to issue writs for enforcement of fundamental rights?

The authority to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights is vested in the Supreme Court as well as the High Courts under Article 32 and Article 226 of the Constitution of India, respectively. However, the Supreme Court is particularly significant because it serves as the apex court of the country and plays a crucial role in the protection and enforcement of fundamental rights.

Article 32 explicitly grants the Supreme Court the power to issue directions, orders, or writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights. This article is often referred to as the "heart and soul" of the Constitution in terms of individual rights, allowing individuals to approach the Supreme Court directly when they believe their fundamental rights are being violated. The writs issued can take the form of habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari, providing an essential mechanism for judicial redress.

While High Courts also have the authority to issue writs, their jurisdiction is generally confined to the territory of the respective states and they operate under Article 226. The Supreme Court, on the other hand, has a broader scope of authority and its decisions set precedents for all other courts in the country.

District Courts and Metropolitan Courts do not possess the authority to issue writs for