CJI B R Gavai hailed Dr. B R Ambedkar as a “true nationalist” and credited the Constitution for keeping India united and strong despite challenges. He also clarified that the Collegium system involves both the judiciary and the government.
Speaking at a seminar on ‘Constitution and Constitutionalism: The Philosophy of B R Ambedkar’ held at Allahabad University in Prayagraj, Chief Justice of India B R Gavai praised Dr. B R Ambedkar for his lasting contribution to India’s unity and constitutional framework.
The CJI described Ambedkar as a “true nationalist” whose vision continues to keep India united and strong even after several decades of independence.
“Despite there being some issues inside and outside the country, India is still united and strong and the credit for the same goes to the Constitution,”
the Chief Justice said while addressing the gathering.
CJI Gavai compared India’s democratic journey with that of its neighbouring countries, saying,
“He cited the examples of Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and said that India had been able to protect the fundamental rights only because of its Constitution.”
He explained that India’s constitutional design has played a crucial role in preserving citizens’ rights and ensuring democratic governance even in times of crisis.
He further added,
“If the Constitution is the structure, then constitutionalism is the soul and the soul believes that the public representatives elected by the people will be accountable to the public.”
Through this, he emphasised the importance of accountability and the spirit of constitutionalism in a healthy democracy.
Addressing concerns over the judicial appointments process, the Chief Justice also spoke about the Collegium system.
He clarified,
“Some people criticised the Collegium system of appointment of the judges on the ground that India was the only country where the judges appoint the judges but it was completely true. The government is also involved in this process,”
This remark aimed to clear misconceptions about the role of the executive in the judicial appointment process.
The CJI also referred to the provision of single citizenship in India, crediting Dr. Ambedkar for its inclusion in the Constitution.
He said,
“It unites the country……during wars and emergencies the Constitution gives powers to the Union…..The Constitution has guided at every step in India to ensure political, economic and social equality,”
His remarks highlighted how Ambedkar’s vision of unity continues to guide the nation’s governance and strengthen its democratic fabric.
He also addressed the long-debated relationship between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy, stating that,
“There was no clash between the fundamental rights and the directive principles of state policy. Both are complementary to each other.”
Earlier, the Chief Justice also attended the annual day celebrations of an Inter College at Kaushambi, which was established in the memory of Maheshwari Prasad, the grandfather of Justice Vikram Nath.
During the event, he encouraged teachers to play a vital role in shaping the future of students and strengthening the moral and intellectual foundations of society.
The CJI’s address at Allahabad University was a reminder of Dr. Ambedkar’s timeless ideals and the enduring strength of India’s Constitution — a document that continues to safeguard democracy, equality, and justice in the world’s largest democracy.
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