India’s Democratic Soul Resides in Its Constitution: CJI B.R. Gavai at Allahabad University
At a grand ceremony held at Allahabad University’s Prof. Ishwar Tewari Hall on Saturday, Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai emphasized that the Constitution is the soul of Indian democracy and the foundation of the nation’s strength, unity, and stability.
The event marked the inauguration of three newly constructed university buildings — the New Chemistry Building, the Lecture Theatre Complex, and the Central Library Reading Hall.
The ceremony began with traditional lamp-lighting by CJI B.R. Gavai, Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath, Allahabad High Court Chief Justice Arun Bhansali, and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sangita Srivastava.
A Guard of Honor was presented by the 15 UP NCC Battalion. The Vice-Chancellor also presented a citation to the Chief Justice in recognition of his contributions to the judiciary and the nation.
Constitution Ensures Unified Governance
Addressing the gathering, CJI Gavai highlighted that, unlike several federal nations with separate constitutions for federal and state governments, India follows a single constitution for both the Union and the states.
This, he said, has ensured structural balance and seamless governance.
He noted that India’s judicial system — from district courts to high courts and ultimately to the Supreme Court — has effectively safeguarded citizens’ rights and upheld the dignity of justice.
CJI Gavai praised Dr. B.R. Ambedkar for laying the foundation of India’s democratic and constitutional framework by ensuring an equitable distribution of powers across the Legislature, Executive, a nd Judiciary.
Calling Article 32 the “soul of the Constitution,” he asserted that without it, the Constitution would lack life and meaning.
He stressed that fundamental rights — including access to food, clean air, water, and education — are central to the right to life.
True progress, he said, is possible only when social equality and compassion go hand in hand. “In India, every citizen is equal in the eyes of the Constitution,” he added.
Vice-Chancellor: CJI’s Presence, A Matter of Pride
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sangita Srivastava expressed pride in hosting the CJI, calling his visit a historic moment for the university.
Quoting poet Ralph Waldo Emerson, she praised CJI Gavai’s principled leadership and stated that Allahabad University has long been a cradle of scholarly talent and national leadership.
She highlighted the importance of education as the bedrock of nation-building and noted that AU is currently the third most sought-after central university in India.
Constitution — A Moral Contract for Liberty & Equality
Chief Justice Arun Bhansali of the Allahabad High Court described the Constitution as Dr. Ambedkar’s ethical pledge to build a nation rooted in liberty, equality, and fraternity.
He emphasized that Ambedkar’s vision extended beyond legal text — it sought to build a society guided by constitutional morality.
The success of Indian democracy, he said, lies in the faithful adherence to these values.
Nobody Above the Constitution
Justice Vikram Nath of the Supreme Court reiterated that no individual is above the Constitution.
He lauded Ambedkar for ushering in the principles of liberalism and social justice and for enshrining the idea of accessible justice for all citizens, irrespective of caste, class, or gender.
He also praised CJI Gavai’s judicial leadership as a source of inspiration for the youth of India.
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