Judicial Deference To Administrative Expertise: Balance Between Law And Policy
- IJLLR Journal
- Nov 16
- 1 min read
Nagalakshmi R, B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.), Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, School of Law, Bengaluru
ABSTRACT
Administrative decision-making in India has become more complex as regulatory organisations, specialised agencies, and policy-driven governance have grown in number. The court, as the custodian of constitutional law, is frequently faced with the difficult task of assessing how much it should intervene in administrative operations requiring technical or policy knowledge. Judicial deference, or the idea that courts should accept the specialised knowledge of administrative authorities, is critical to institutional harmony and efficiency. However, undue deference threatens to undermine the norms of accountability and legality.
This study examines how Indian courts have addressed judicial deference to administrative expertise. It traces the growth of the doctrine through constitutional principles, judicial interpretations, and administrative reforms. Drawing on sources such as the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) Report, this study advocates for a balanced framework that permits courts to verify legality while also recognising administrative discretion. Comparative observations from the United Kingdom and the United States are also examined to provide a global perspective. The study finishes by providing research-based remedies for a clearer philosophy of judicial deference in India that balances administrative autonomy and constitutional duty.
Keywords: Judicial Deference, Administrative Law, Policy Review, Separation of Powers, Administrative Expertise, Indian Judiciary, Governance, Accountability.
