During the event, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of Dr. Ambedkar’s vision for a just society. CJI Khanna emphasized how the principles embedded in the Constitution continue to guide the judiciary’s decisions and actions. The Chief Justice acknowledged the deep impact of Dr. Ambedkar’s thoughts, particularly his advocacy for the rights of the downtrodden, and the profound significance of ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all citizens under the rule of law.
NEW DELHI: On December 6, 2024, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, alongside fellow judges of the Supreme Court, paid homage to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on the occasion of his death anniversary.
The solemn ceremony, held at the Supreme Court premises, was a moment to reflect on Dr. Ambedkar’s monumental contributions to the Indian legal and constitutional framework, particularly his pivotal role in drafting the Indian Constitution.
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, one of India’s most prominent social reformers and the principal architect of the Constitution of India, passed away on December 6, 1956. His legacy continues to influence the nation, especially in the realm of law, social justice, and equality. The Supreme Court’s tribute to Dr. Ambedkar highlights his enduring influence in shaping India’s legal and political landscape.
Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, along with other distinguished members of the bench, paid their respects by offering floral tributes at a portrait of Dr. Ambedkar, a moment observed with profound reverence. The ceremony was not only a gesture of respect but also an acknowledgment of the profound impact Dr. Ambedkar had in laying the groundwork for a democratic and inclusive society through the Indian Constitution.
Dr. Ambedkar’s role as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution cannot be overstated. His tireless efforts ensured that the Constitution enshrined principles of equality, justice, and liberty, empowering the marginalized sections of society. The adoption of the Constitution under his guidance marked a turning point in India’s post-independence journey, providing a legal framework that enshrines the fundamental rights of every citizen.
Known primarily as a champion for Dalit emancipation and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s contributions extend far beyond these well-known roles. He was not only a brilliant economist but also a keen political analyst and a profound spiritual thinker.
Books Written by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
- Annihilation of Caste
- Who Were the Shudras
- Path to Salvation
- Riddles in Hinduism
- History of Indian Currency and Banking
- Against the Madness of Manu
- Small Holdings in India and Their Remedies
- Administration and Finance of the East India Company
- Beef, Brahmins, and Broken Men
- Thoughts on Pakistan
- Maharashtra as a Linguistic Province
- Nation & Nationalism
- The Problem of the Rupee: Its Origin and Solution
- Castes in India
- Gandhi and Gandhism
- Emancipation of the Untouchables
- Pakistan or Partition of India
- Federation vs Freedom
- Castes in India
- Buddha or Karl Marx
- Buddha and His Dhamma
- The Untouchables
- Revolution and Counter-Revolution in Ancient India
- Thoughts on Linguistic States
- What Congress and Gandhi Have Done to Untouchables
- Ranade, Gandhi, and Jinnah
- States and Minorities
- Ambedkar Thought
- India and Communism
- Evolution of Provincial Finance in British India
- Communal Deadlock and a Way to Solve It
- Waiting for a Visa
- Autobiography
- Words of Freedom
The Supreme Court’s observance of Dr. Ambedkar’s death anniversary is a reflection of the institution’s continued commitment to upholding the values of justice, equality, and human rights that he championed throughout his life. It serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s crucial role in safeguarding the Constitution and protecting the rights of citizens, especially those from historically disadvantaged communities.
CJI Sanjiv Khanna’s Remarks
During the event, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of Dr. Ambedkar’s vision for a just society. CJI Khanna emphasized how the principles embedded in the Constitution continue to guide the judiciary’s decisions and actions. The Chief Justice acknowledged the deep impact of Dr. Ambedkar’s thoughts, particularly his advocacy for the rights of the downtrodden, and the profound significance of ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all citizens under the rule of law.
His address resonated with the commitment to maintaining Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy in the contemporary legal and social landscape. The judiciary, CJI Khanna noted, remains devoted to fostering the spirit of social justice that Dr. Ambedkar envisioned through the Constitution’s provisions.
The judiciary’s role in promoting human dignity and equality was emphasized as a crucial component of Ambedkar’s vision. In a country as diverse as India, the Constitution, and the judiciary’s interpretation of it, serves as a bulwark against any form of discrimination or marginalization, ensuring that the rights of every citizen are upheld.
Dr. Ambedkar’s teachings are a clarion call for a just society, where legal institutions serve as protectors of rights and enforcers of equality. His vision of a society free from discrimination continues to inspire the judiciary, lawmakers, and citizens alike to build a better, more equitable India.
