Appellate jurisdiction refers to the power of a higher court to review, revise, or reverse the decision of a lower court. In simpler terms, when a party is not satisfied with the decision of a lower court or authority, they can appeal to a higher court. The higher court then exercises appellate jurisdiction to examine whether the decision was legally correct. In India, appellate jurisdiction applies to: 1. Supreme Court of India: - Hears appeals from High Courts in civil, criminal, and constitutional cases under Articles 132 to 136 of the Constitution. - Can also hear special leave petitions (SLPs) under Article 136. 2. High Courts: - Have appellate jurisdiction over decisions from subordinate courts (District Courts, Sessions Courts). - Can hear both civil and criminal appeals. 3. Subordinate Courts: - In some cases, District Judges can hear appeals from decisions of lower civil courts. Key Points: - Appellate jurisdiction is different from original jurisdiction, where a case is heard for the first time. - The appellate court can uphold, reverse, or modify the lower court’s decision. - Appeals must usually be filed within a prescribed time limit (limitation period).
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