How does an independent judiciary protect democracy in India?

An independent judiciary protects democracy by ensuring everyone, including the government, follows the law. It safeguards citizens' fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution through judicial review. The judiciary acts as a referee, checking whether laws are fair and preventing any branch of government from becoming too powerful. It resolves conflicts peacefully and protects minorities from majority dominance. Without a strong, independent judiciary that interprets and defends laws impartially, democracy cannot survive.