Constitution: A Revolutionary Charter for Social Transformation, Says CJI BR Gavai

Chief Justice of India, Dr. DY Chandrachud, in a recent international address, described the Indian Constitution as more than a mere framework for political governance. Speaking at the Milan Court of Appeal in Italy, he characterized it as a “revolutionary statement” that offered renewed hope to a nation emerging from centuries of colonial oppression, deep poverty, systemic inequality, and entrenched social divisions.

Delivering a keynote on the theme “The Role of Constitution in Delivering Socio-Economic Justice in a Country: Reflections from 75 Years of Indian Constitution,” CJI Gavai emphasized the foundational commitment of India’s Constitution to socio-economic justice. He stated that the drafters of the Constitution were fully aware of the need to bring about transformative change in society through legal and institutional means.

Reflecting on this commitment, the Chief Justice pointed to the Directive Principles of State Policy as evidence of the constitutional vision for socio-economic upliftment. “It represented a promise of a fresh start where social and economic justice would guide the nation’s goals. At its heart, the Indian Constitution enshrines liberty and equality for all citizens,” he said.

CJI Gavai recalled the early scepticism of several constitutional commentators, such as Sir Ivor Jennings, who had described the Indian Constitution as “too long, too rigid, too prolix.” However, he firmly noted that the last 75 years have defied such predictions. “India’s constitutional experience has demonstrated the document’s resilience and its pivotal role in advancing justice for all,” he remarked.

During his speech, the Chief Justice discussed several landmark legislations enacted by the Indian Parliament that fulfilled the aspirations of the Directive Principles. He also referred to judicial pronouncements that expansively interpreted fundamental rights, thereby reinforcing the transformative spirit of the Constitution.

“In essence, the Indian Constitution’s journey over the last seventy-five years is a testament to our collective ambition and the significant strides we have made in socio-economic justice,” he stated.

He highlighted key milestones like agrarian reforms and affirmative action policies, which had a profound effect on dismantling historical injustices. While land reforms helped break feudal structures and redistributed access to livelihood, reservation policies worked toward greater inclusion of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other historically marginalized communities in education and public employment.

“The Constitution gave us not just a vision but also the tools and ethical foundation to reshape our society. It has shown us that the law is not only an instrument of order but also a force for empowerment and justice,” CJI Gavai said.

Concluding his remarks, he quoted civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.:

“The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” He added his own reflection to this powerful message: “It bends only when we make the conscious effort to bend it ourselves.”