What is the role of the Judicial review process?

• A. It identifies constitutional violations and remedies them.
• B. It only reviews religious or private matters.
• C. It blocks all new laws from being passed.
• D. It is the process by which courts examine laws and government actions to ensure they comply with the Constitution.

Answer: (D)

Judicial review is the process by which courts check that laws and government actions follow the Constitution. It acts as a guardrail, making sure the legislative and executive branches don’t exceed their powers. When a law or government decision conflicts with the Constitution, the court can invalidate it or require changes, upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights. It’s not about private or religious matters, nor about blocking every new law; it’s about ensuring constitutional compliance. In Australia, the High Court is the main body that performs this role, interpreting the Constitution and ruling on the validity of legislation and executive actions.