The judiciary in India plays a pivotal role in ensuring democracy and protecting constitutional rights. Here are some key points regarding the judiciary's function in upholding democracy in India:

• The judiciary is responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring that they are in line with the Indian Constitution.
• It acts as a check and balance against the other branches of the government, such as the executive and legislative branches, to ensure they do not overstep their authority.
• The judiciary ensures fair and equitable administration of justice and safeguards the individual freedoms of citizens, such as the right to speech, religion, and property.
• Through writs like habeas corpus, mandamus and PIL it is able to hold governments and public officials accountable for actions that may impinge on people's rights and socio-economic needs of the masses, it upholds the principle of equality before law and ensures the rule of law.
• The judiciary has famously taken up several landmark cases to protect citizens' rights. Examples include the ADM Jabalpur case and the Kesavananda Bharati case.
• The judiciary also plays a leading role in upholding democracy by ensuring elections are free and fair, by hearing cases related to electoral misconduct, and by protecting the rights of minority groups and Scheduled Castes and Tribes.

Overall, the judiciary in India is fundamental in protecting constitutional rights and ensuring democracy, and it continues to play a crucial role in shaping the nation's future.