Quasi-judicial body
Topic: Statutory, Regulatory and Quasi-judicial Bodies · NCERT: Class 9, Ch 7 "Elections"
Meaning
A quasi-judicial body is not a court, but it has some court-like powers. It can summon witnesses, call for records and take evidence. Usually these are the powers of a civil court under the CPC (the Code of Civil Procedure). It hears both sides and then decides. It must follow natural justice, which means basic fairness such as giving each side a hearing. The High Courts and the Supreme Court can review its decisions through writs under Articles 32, 226 and 227.
Example
The Election Commission acts as a quasi-judicial body when it settles a dispute over a party's symbol under para 15 of the Symbols Order 1968. The NHRC, the Central Information Commission, consumer commissions and the Competition Commission of India also have quasi-judicial powers.
Don't confuse with
- Court: a court is part of the judiciary. A quasi-judicial body is outside the judiciary, and courts can check its decisions.
- Advisory body: bodies such as NITI Aayog only give advice. They do not hear both sides or decide disputes.