Welcome to the Global Demos podcast with Kapil Balhara, where we explore the crucial role of the judiciary in democratic societies. In this episode, we emphasize the rule of law and its contribution to thriving democracies. We begin by examining how the judiciary ensures justice for citizens and acts as the guardian of democracy. We highlight key attributes of democratic societies, such as the protection of human rights and limitations on the executive and legislative branches. Moving on to India, we explore the judiciary's vital role in progressing towards substantive democracy. We delve into the exercise of discretion in complex cases, variation in judges' opinions, and ideological diversity within the Indian judicial system. We discuss the transformations in the judicial role, considering the influence of legal frameworks such as legal realism, positivism, natural law movement, and critical legal studies. We touch on global ideals that shape judicial systems, including debates on judicial activism and self-restraint, and the theory of separation of powers. To ensure the judiciary plays a key role in democratic societies, we outline pre-conditions such as personal and institutional independence, judicial objectivity, absence of bias, public confidence, and faith in judges. Exploring the relationship between the judiciary and other branches of government, we discuss the role of the judiciary in reviewing executive and legislative actions, safeguarding the constitution and democracy, and the importance of maintaining tension for judicial integrity. Factors influencing this relationship are examined, including the attitude towards the state, separation of powers, interpretation of the rule of law, and complexities of judicial activism and self-restraint. We delve into the power of judicial review, its application to statutes and executive actions, and the importance of upholding the legislative role and reasonableness in governmental actions. Shifting focus to the judiciary's responses to terrorism, we explore the challenges faced by democracies, the importance of preserving the rule of law and individual liberties, and the role of the legislature, executive, and judiciary in managing tension. Lastly, we conclude by reaffirming the pivotal role of the judiciary in maintaining democracy. We emphasize the judiciary's responsibility to guard the constitution, ensure accountability and independence, and contribute to the ongoing evolution and reform of democratic processes #llb #law #kapilbalhara #globaldemos