Today, On 26th November, Chief Justice of Bhutan said India’s Constitution has undergone 106 amendments, yet its basic structure remains intact. He praised the Indian judiciary for its stability, judicial excellence, and significant contribution to upholding rule of law across common law nations.
Chief Justices and judges from several foreign jurisdictions who took part in the Supreme Court Bar Association’s (SCBA) Constitution Day event today were also present in the Supreme Court, joining Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice J Joymalya Bagchi during the proceedings.
The visiting dignitaries included the Chief Justices of Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Mauritius, along with judges from the Supreme Courts of Kenya, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Federal Court of Malaysia.
The Chief Justice of Kenya expressed his admiration for the Indian judiciary, stating,
“In Kenya, we greatly value the jurisprudence and decisions of the Supreme Court of India, which serve as a guiding reference for us. We wish you continued success so that together we can uphold the rule of law not only in India, but across common law nations.”
The Chief Justice of Mauritius also lauded Indian judicial interpretations, saying,
“Our courts too look to the interpretations and reasoning of Indian judgments. I join my colleagues in congratulating the incoming CJI Surya Kant. It has been an insightful and enriching session.”
Chief Justice of Bhutan highlighted India’s constitutional stability and the country’s legal significance, mentioning,
“India has a vast territory and abundant natural resources. Your Constitution has gone through 106 amendments when I studied at CLC Delhi, there were 91 yet the basic structure remains intact. We hold India in high regard. I also notice the courtroom is filled with far more lawyers than the population of my city.”
Chief Justice of Sri Lanka appreciated the shared legal heritage, observing,
“I am grateful for this opportunity. As the CJI mentioned, we share the same traditions and legal heritage. I thought coming to India would take me away from courts and lawyers, yet here I am on the bench. We follow the common law system, and I noticed on the Supreme Court staircase that the Madras High Court was set up in 1800 and Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court in 1801 both with two puisne chief justices.”
The Chief Justice of Nepal praised the Supreme Court’s efficiency and technological advancements, adding,
“I was impressed by how efficiently the matters progressed and by the level of digitisation in the court system. With Constitution Day, the new CJI, and the week dedicated to eliminating violence against women, I extend my congratulations to the CJI and the Bar this will further strengthen Bar Bench relations.”
Also Read: Samvidhan Divas | From Preamble to Key Amendments: India’s Longest Constitution Explained
Constitution Day, also known as Samvidhan Divas, is celebrated in India on November 26 each year. It marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1949, which came into effect on January 26, 1950.
The day is observed to honor the architects of the Constitution, especially Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and to promote awareness about constitutional rights and duties. Various events, lectures, and activities are organized nationwide to emphasize the significance of democratic principles and governance.