Who serves as the guarantor of the fundamental rights of citizens in India?

• A. Parliament
• B. Supreme Court
• C. President
• D. Prime Minister

Answer: (B)

The Supreme Court serves as the guarantor of the fundamental rights of citizens in India, as enshrined in Part III of the Constitution. The role of the Supreme Court is critical in interpreting the Constitution and ensuring that the fundamental rights are upheld and protected against any infringement by the state or any other entity.

It has the authority to hear petitions directly under Article 32, which allows individuals to approach the Supreme Court for enforcement of these rights. The Court not only adjudicates matters concerning fundamental rights but also has the power of judicial review, which enables it to invalidate laws and actions that violate these rights. This mechanism ensures that citizens can seek redress and that their constitutional rights are respected.

While the Parliament has the ability to legislate on rights, and the President plays a ceremonial role in upholding the Constitution, the active enforcement and interpretation of fundamental rights rest with the judiciary, specifically the Supreme Court. The Prime Minister, although a key figure in governance, does not have a direct role in guaranteeing individual rights as articulated in the Constitution.