Need inclusive legal system to address past wrongs: CJI D Y Chandrachud
The unveiling of Dr. B R Ambedkar’s bust at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts, holds significance not only as a tribute to the great Indian social reformer and jurist but also as a testament to the global recognition of his contributions to the pursuit of social justice and equality. Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, emphasized the imperative need for a just and inclusive legal system that can effectively address historical injustices and promote social equity within societies.
Justice Chandrachud’s presence at the event underscored the growing acknowledgment of Dr. B R Ambedkar’s legacy, particularly in the context of fostering a more equitable and inclusive society. His reference to the unanimous Ayodhya verdict, which recognized the limitations of the judiciary in rectifying historical wrongs, highlights the complexities involved in addressing deeply rooted social and historical issues within a legal framework.
Brandeis University, established in 1948 and named after Justice Louis Dembitz Brandeis of the US Supreme Court, has a notable history of promoting non-sectarian, co-educational values and is supported by the Jewish community. The installation of Dr. B R Ambedkar’s bust within the university’s library signifies the university’s commitment to honoring diverse voices and promoting the values of equality and justice advocated by Dr. Ambedkar.
Such initiatives and events not only serve to commemorate the invaluable contributions of visionaries like Dr. Ambedkar but also serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and just society, both within India and across the world. The recognition and celebration of his ideals contribute to the ongoing dialogue on social justice, human rights, and the need for an equitable legal framework globally.
In his keynote address at the sixth international conference on the ‘Unfinished Legacy of Dr B R Ambedkar’, the Chief Justice of India, further delved into the essential role of legal reform in remedying historical wrongs and fostering a more just and inclusive society. His speech, titled ‘Reformation Beyond Representation: The Social Life of the Constitution in Remedying Historical Wrongs,’ highlighted the critical significance of recognizing and addressing historical injustices within the framework of the legal system.
Emphasizing the importance of legal reform, the Chief Justice underscored how the process of acknowledging past wrongs could serve as a catalyst for societal transformation and progress. He emphasized the need for an inclusive legal system that is not only responsive to contemporary challenges but also committed to rectifying historical injustices. By recognizing the vital role of the Constitution as a safeguard against potential abuses of power, he echoed Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of constitutionalism as a robust mechanism to protect the rights of all citizens.
The discourse at the conference underscored the enduring relevance of Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals and principles in the contemporary context, particularly in the pursuit of social justice, equality, and the protection of individual rights. The Chief Justice’s address shed light on the ongoing efforts to build a legal framework that reflects the evolving social dynamics and addresses historical imbalances, thereby paving the way for a more equitable and just society.
Conferences of this nature not only serve as platforms for intellectual discourse but also contribute to the broader dialogue on the intersection of law, social justice, and human rights. By honoring Dr. B R Ambedkar’s legacy, such events further inspire the pursuit of a more inclusive and egalitarian society, both within India and globally.
Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, reiterated the significance of implementing reformation beyond mere representation, emphasizing the critical need for marginalized and underrepresented communities to have not only a presence but also a meaningful role in decision-making processes. By advocating for a deeper transformation of power dynamics, policies, and societal structures, he underscored the importance of addressing systemic inequalities and promoting inclusive governance.
Highlighting Dr. B R Ambedkar’s lasting impact on the constitutional values of contemporary India, the Chief Justice emphasized how Ambedkar’s legacy continues to serve as a guiding light for social reform and the relentless pursuit of justice for all. Drawing from Ambedkar’s profound insights, the Chief Justice quoted, “However bad a Constitution may be, it may turn out to be good if those who are called to work it happen to be a good lot,” signifying the crucial role of individuals in upholding the values enshrined in the Constitution.
By incorporating Ambedkar’s ideals into the discourse, the Chief Justice not only emphasized the relevance of Ambedkar’s teachings in contemporary governance but also highlighted the responsibility of individuals in ensuring the effective implementation of constitutional principles. The quote serves as a reminder of the pivotal role played by those entrusted with the task of upholding the Constitution in shaping the trajectory of a nation.
Conferences and gatherings that invoke the spirit of Dr. B R Ambedkar contribute to the ongoing dialogue on social justice, governance, and the promotion of inclusive policies. By drawing on Ambedkar’s profound insights and principles, leaders and policymakers can continue to work towards creating a more equitable and just society, where the voices of all communities, particularly the marginalized and underrepresented, are heard and valued in the decision-making process.
