Established the Basic Structure Doctrine, holding that Parliament cannot amend the Constitution in a manner that destroys its basic framework.
Expanded Article 21 by introducing the principles of fairness, reasonableness, and due process into Indian constitutional law.
Held that Parliament cannot amend Fundamental Rights, later partially overruled by Kesavananda Bharati.
Reinforced the Basic Structure Doctrine and balanced Fundamental Rights with Directive Principles.
Early interpretation of Article 21, later broadened by Maneka Gandhi
Upheld reservation for OBCs and introduced the concept of the creamy layer.
Limited misuse of Article 356 and strengthened federalism.
Laid down guidelines against workplace sexual harassment using international conventions.
Struck down Section 66A of the IT Act, protecting freedom of speech.
Decriminalized consensual homosexual acts, affirming dignity and privacy.
Declared the Right to Privacy as a fundamental right.
Held that fundamental rights could be suspended during emergency; later overruled.
Subjected laws in the Ninth Schedule to judicial review.
Introduced absolute liability in environmental law.
Clarified Centre–State relations under the Constitution.
Expanded the interpretation of property rights and individual freedoms.
Protected freedom of the press under Article 19(1)(a).
Emphasized fair trial and witness protection.
Introduced the concept of arbitrariness under Article 14.
Laid down guidelines to prevent custodial torture.
Expanded public interest litigation and protection of bonded labour
Prioritized Fundamental Rights over Directive Principles.
Upheld the Tenth Schedule and anti-defection law.
Restored judicial review power of High Courts and Supreme Court.
Strengthened doctrine of precedent under Article 141.
