What is the writ of Prohibition?

The writ of prohibition literally means ‘to forbid’. It is issued by a higher court to a lower court or tribunal to prevent the latter from exceeding its jurisdiction or usurping a jurisdiction that it does not possess. Thus, unlike the mandamus that directs activity, prohibition directs inactivity. In simple terms, this writ is issued by a higher court (High Court or Supreme Court) when a lower court has considered a case going beyond its jurisdiction. 

Further Reading:

• Types of Writs
• Right to Constitutional Remedies
• High Courts of India