Concept:The judiciary is the guardian of citizens' rights and the rule of law.Explanation:The judiciary interprets laws and settles disputes fairly.It protects the fundamental rights of the people against any violation by individuals or the government.It also ensures that the executive and legislature act within constitutional limits.Therefore, its importance lies in safeguarding the rights of the people, not just supervising the executive or being a profession of intellectuals.Answer:C. protector of the rights of the people