In India, writs are vital legal remedies provided under Article 32 (Supreme Court) and Article 226 (High Courts) of the Constitution to uphold fundamental rights and ensure justice. There are five key types of writs: Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, and Quo Warranto.
Habeas Corpus secures release from unlawful detention. Mandamus compels a public official to perform a legal duty. Prohibition stops a lower court or tribunal from acting beyond its jurisdiction, while Certiorari quashes illegal orders of lower courts. Quo Warranto challenges unlawful occupation of public office.
The Supreme Court issues writs only for fundamental rights, while High Courts can do so for legal rights as well. Habeas Corpus can be filed by anyone on behalf of the detained, whereas the other writs are directed at public authorities or bodies.