Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achieving the ideals of democracy. (UPSC 2014)

Judicial activism, especially since the basic structure doctrine, has protected the Constitution’s core values—rule of law, secularism, federalism, judicial review and democracy—by limiting arbitrary state power.

• Deepened democracy: It improved transparency in political funding, widened voter choice, and checked corruption and bribery in public life.
• Expanded rights: By reading dignity, equality and environment into Article 21, the judiciary made fundamental rights more effective and responsive to new challenges.
• Protected institutions: It has defended federal balance, ensured timely constitutional action by constitutional authorities, and safeguarded minority rights.

Yet, when activism crosses into policy-making, it can disturb separation of powers and invite judicial overreach; therefore, it best serves democracy when guided by restraint, accountability and constitutional limits.