The High Court is the highest judicial authority in a State. There are eighteen High Courts in our country, some of which are shared by two States or Union Territories. Let us learn about the composition, power and function of High Court.

Composition

A High Court also consists of a Chief justice and other judges. The number of judges is decided according to the size of the state. The President of India appoints the Chief Justice of the High Court in consultation with the Chief Justice of a High Court in consultation with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the Governor of that particular state. The other judges are appointed in a similar manner.

Eligibility

A High Court judge must be a citizen of India. He should be a judge of a civil or sessions court of India, of ten years standing, or an advocate with ten years experience of practice in a High Court. They can serve till the age of sixty-two. If they wish, they can resign earlier or can be removed by the President through the same process that applies to the Supreme Court judges.

Power and function of High Court

The High Court of a State can hear �original� cases, like those concerning the Fundamental Rights. It also passes rules on election petitions other election-related disputes. Besides, it hears appeals in both civil and criminal cases against the decisions of the District Courts and can review their judgments. It also controls and supervises the working of the Lower Courts and maintains records of its proceedings and decisions. The Lower Courts can refer to these records.

Read More: Subordinate Courts: Types Of Lower Courts- The Judiciary, Class 8 Notes