Polity
2024
Supreme Court
High Courts
Fundamental Rights

A Writ of Prohibition is an order issued by the Supreme Court or High Courts to:

C.the lower court prohibiting continuation of proceedings in a case.
A.a government officer prohibiting him from taking a particular action.
B.the Parliament/Legislative Assembly to pass a law on Prohibition.
D.the Government prohibiting it from following an unconstitutional policy.

Correct Answer: Option C

A Writ of Prohibition is issued by the Supreme Court or High Courts to lower courts, tribunals, and quasi-judicial authorities to prevent them from exceeding their jurisdictional authority.

It essentially orders these bodies to stop proceedings in a case that is beyond their jurisdiction. This writ ensures inactivity, distinguishing it from a Writ of Mandamus, which compels activity.

The Writ of Prohibition is only applicable against judicial and quasi-judicial bodies. It cannot be used against administrative authorities, legislative bodies, or private individuals/bodies.

Hence, option (c) is the correct answer.