The power of the Supreme Court of India to decide disputes between the Centre and the States falls under its

Correct Option

The Supreme Court of India possesses exclusive original jurisdiction under Article 131 of the Constitution to adjudicate disputes between the Centre and the States. This jurisdiction extends to:

• Disputes between the Government of India and one or more States.
• Disputes between the Government of India and any State or States on one side and one or more other States on the other side.
• Disputes between two or more States.

This jurisdiction is exclusive because no other court, including the High Courts, can entertain such disputes. It is fundamental to the federal structure of India, providing a mechanism for resolving inter-governmental conflicts.

Incorrect Options

Advisory jurisdiction (Option a): Under Article 143, the President of India may refer questions of law or fact of public importance to the Supreme Court for its advisory opinion. This jurisdiction is consultative and does not involve the resolution of disputes between the Centre and States.

Appellate jurisdiction (Option b): This jurisdiction involves hearing appeals against judgments of lower courts, primarily High Courts, in constitutional, civil, and criminal matters. It does not pertain to the initial resolution of disputes between the Union and State governments.

Writ jurisdiction (Option d): Under Article 32, the Supreme Court has the power to issue various writs (Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, and Quo Warranto) for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights. While crucial for individual liberties, it is not the mechanism for settling federal disputes between the Centre and States.