The final interpreter of the United States Constitution is generally considered to be the Supreme Court. Since the landmark case Marbury v. Madison (1803), the Supreme Court has asserted its authority to interpret the Constitution and review the constitutionality of governmental actions, making its interpretations binding and authoritative in legal disputes properly before it. This judicial supremacy promotes stability and uniformity in constitutional interpretation and preserves constitutional norms from majoritarian pressures
. However, this view of judicial supremacy is subject to debate. Some scholars and officials argue that the Constitution, as an expression of the fundamental values of the American people, should be interpreted not only by the judiciary but also by Congress, the Executive, and even ordinary citizens, who maintain independent and coordinate authority to explore constitutional meanings
. In the context of India, the Supreme Court is explicitly recognized as the final interpreter of the Indian Constitution. It has the power of judicial review to safeguard fundamental rights and can strike down legislation that violates constitutional provisions. Articles such as 13, 32, and others empower the Supreme Court to review any law and ensure constitutional compliance, establishing it as the ultimate guardian and interpreter of the Constitution in India
Summary
Country| Final Interpreter of the Constitution
---|---
United States| Supreme Court (judicial supremacy, but debated)
India| Supreme Court (explicit constitutional role)
Thus, in the U.S., the Supreme Court is the final interpreter in practice and law, though some debate exists about the roles of other branches and the people. In India, the Supreme Court is constitutionally the final interpreter and guardian of the Constitution.
