It observed that the constitutional structure now establishes two independent apex courts operating in separate domains rather than a hierarchical appellate system.
The judgment also clarified that Article 189, which deals with binding precedents, does not create subordination between the two courts. It added that while legal principles laid down by the FCC will be binding, neither court can act as an appellate forum over the other.
To avoid jurisdictional conflicts, the court directed that all clubbed cases be “de-clubbed” and sent to the appropriate forums.
Invoking the principle of judicial comity, the court stressed that both courts must exercise restraint to avoid conflicting interpretations of law.
Finally, the court ruled that contempt proceedings related to Supreme Court orders will remain within its jurisdiction, even after the constitutional changes.
