Original Jurisdiction
The power of a court to hear a case for the first time, without it first being heard by a lower court.
Full Definition
Original jurisdiction is the power to hear and decide cases as the first court of record � not on appeal. The Supreme Court of India has original jurisdiction in: inter-state disputes (Article 131), enforcement of fundamental rights (Article 32), and cases transferred from High Courts. High Courts have original jurisdiction in civil matters above pecuniary limits and in certain specified matters.
In Indian Law
Article 131: exclusive original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in disputes between states, or between states and the Union. Article 32: original writ jurisdiction. Presidential references under Article 143: the Supreme Court gives advisory opinions (not binding). High Courts' original civil jurisdiction under Section 120A-D CPC.