In the Indian constitutional framework, which of the following is regarded as the ultimate custodian and interpreter of the Constitution of India?

Introduction / Context:
This question explores the role of different organs of the Indian state in relation to the Constitution. While all organs are bound by the Constitution, one institution has the special responsibility of interpreting the Constitution and ensuring that laws and executive actions conform to it. This institution is often described as the guardian or custodian of the Constitution. Knowing which body plays this role is crucial for understanding judicial review, separation of powers and constitutional supremacy.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The options include the Supreme Court, Cabinet Ministers, President, Parliament and the Election Commission of India.
• The phrase custodian of the Constitution refers to the authority that ultimately interprets and safeguards the Constitution.
• We assume standard understanding of the powers given by the Constitution to each organ.

Concept / Approach:
In India, the Supreme Court has the power of judicial review, which allows it to examine the constitutionality of laws and executive actions. When there is a dispute about the meaning of a constitutional provision, the Supreme Court gives the authoritative interpretation. Its judgments become binding precedents. The President and Parliament are important constitutional organs but they are not the final interpreters of the Constitution. Therefore, the Supreme Court is widely described as the guardian and custodian of the Constitution of India.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Identify that the question is about who finally interprets the Constitution and ensures its supremacy. 2. Recall that the Supreme Court has the power of judicial review over laws and executive actions. 3. Note that Parliament can make laws, but those laws are subject to constitutional limits and can be struck down by the Supreme Court if they violate the Constitution. 4. The President acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers and does not independently decide constitutional validity. 5. Thus, the Supreme Court is the ultimate custodian and interpreter of the Constitution.

Verification / Alternative check:
Polity books frequently state that the Supreme Court is the guardian of the Constitution. They explain that one of the most important functions of the Supreme Court is to protect fundamental rights and to interpret the Constitution in cases of dispute. Historical judgments, such as those on basic structure doctrine, illustrate that the Court can even limit parliamentary amendments if they violate core constitutional principles. This confirms its custodial role.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Cabinet Ministers: They are part of the executive and must function within the limits set by the Constitution and judicial interpretations.
• President: The President is the head of the State but generally acts on ministerial advice and does not directly interpret the Constitution in a binding way.
• Parliament: Parliament is the supreme law making body, but its laws and even its constitutional amendments are subject to judicial review.
• Election Commission of India: It administers elections and ensures they are free and fair, but does not serve as the final interpreter of the Constitution.

Common Pitfalls:
A common misconception is to think that Parliament is supreme in all respects because it represents the people. In India, however, constitutional supremacy prevails, and Parliament itself is bound by constitutional limitations enforced by the judiciary. Another source of confusion is the ceremonial position of the President as head of the Union, but without the role of deciding constitutional disputes. Remembering that judicial review is the key mechanism for constitutional protection will direct you to the Supreme Court as the correct answer.

Final Answer:
The ultimate custodian and interpreter of the Constitution of India is the Supreme Court.