How have the powers of the Supreme Court been expanded since its inception?
The powers of the Supreme Court have been expanded since its inception through various amendments to the Constitution, such as:

1. The addition of new jurisdictions and functions: Through the 42nd Amendment Act in 1976, the power of the Supreme Court to issue directions for public interest was expanded, allowing it to take up cases on its own motion or at the request of a party.

2. Expanding the scope of judicial review: The Supreme Court's power to declare laws unconstitutional has been broadened over time, enabling it to strike down not only central and state legislation but also government actions that violate fundamental rights.

3. Increasing the number of judges: The Constitution (Ninety-ninth Amendment) Act, 2014, aimed at increasing the strength of the Supreme Court by raising the number of judges from 30 to 34, which would have allowed for more efficient handling of cases and faster justice delivery. However, this amendment was struck down by the Supreme Court in the case of Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association and another vs. Union of India (2015).

4. Establishing new courts: The Constitution (Fifteenth Amendment) Act, 1963, added Article 129, which declared that the Supreme Court shall be a court of record and have all the powers of such a court, including the power to punish for contempt of itself. This amendment also allowed for the establishment of new courts under the jurisdiction of the Chief Justice of India, with approval from the President.

These expansions in the powers and scope of the Supreme Court demonstrate its evolving role as the guardian of the Constitution and protector of citizens' rights in India.