By- VYOMESH UDAY WARUNJIKAR

The Indian judicial system balances constitutional governance through the Supreme Court and the High Courts. Despite a unified structure, the jurisdiction of High Court remains debated. This paper examines their binding authority, tracing their evolution from the colonial era to post-independence. A key focus is Kusum Ingots & Alloys Ltd. v. Union of India, where the Supreme Court’s interpretation reshaped High Courts’ jurisdictional reach. The study explores how various High Courts have applied or extended this principle, raising questions about their territorial limits. By analysing historical precedents, legislative changes and judicial pronouncements, this research evaluates whether High Courts, in practice, wield authority comparable to the Supreme Court. It highlights their evolving role in maintaining constitutional balance and ensuring accessible justice.
Keywords: High Court jurisdiction, Article 226, Precedent Value, Kusum Ingots, Evolution of High Courts, Supreme Court v. High Court