Writs

Writs:

-The Supreme Court (under Article 32) and the high courts (under Article 226) can issue the writs of habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, certiorari and quo-warranto.

-The Parliament (under Article 32) can empower any other court to issue these writs.

-These writs are borrowed from English law where they are known as prerogative writs.

-The Supreme Court can issue writs only for the enforcement of fundamental rights whereas a high court can issue writs not only for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights but also for enforcement of an ordinary legal right.

-Under Article 32, the Supreme Court may not refuse to exercise its writ jurisdiction. On the other hand, under Article 226 is discretionary and hence, a high court may refuse to exercise its writ jurisdiction.