Judicial Control Over Administrative Action in India: A Review of Constitutional Principles and Contemporary Relevance

Sangeeta Hiralal Desarda

Abstract: Judicial control over administrative action lies at the heart of India?s constitutional democracy. It protects citizens from arbitrary or unjust decisions by public authorities and keeps the use of governmental power within legal limits. As the modern State expanded into welfare and regulatory roles, large discretionary powers were delegated to the administration, which made principled judicial oversight essential. Judicial control, most visibly through judicial review, tests administrative action for legality, reasonableness, and fairness. Articles 32 and 226 provide powerful writ remedies in the Supreme Court and High Courts. Article 136 allows the Supreme Court to correct grave injustice through special leave to appeal. The decision in Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973) affirmed that judicial review forms part of the Constitution?s basic structure, so it cannot be removed even by amendment. At the same time, courts exercise restraint. They intervene when decisions are illegal, irrational, or procedurally unfair, but they do not replace administrative judgment on matters of policy or technical discretion. This paper expands the synopsis into a fuller review that remains faithful to the original lines of argument. It develops the constitutional foundations, the main tools of review, and practical reforms that can strengthen accountability while respecting efficient governance.

Keywords: Judicial Review, Administrative Law, Basic Structure, Rule of Law, Writs, Separation of Powers, Accountability

How to Cite?: Sangeeta Hiralal Desarda, "Judicial Control Over Administrative Action in India: A Review of Constitutional Principles and Contemporary Relevance", Volume 14 Issue 10, October 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1264-1266, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR251010143406, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR251010143406