Context: Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud delivered the M.K. Nambyar Memorial Lecture, emphasizing the evolving nature of constitutional doctrine in response to societal changes.
Judgement and Its Importance:
- A.K. Gopalan Case: Nambyar advocated for the ‘due process of law’ in Article 21, which was a major leap in interpreting the right to life and personal liberty. This principle ultimately influenced the court’s understanding that fundamental rights are interlinked and must not be treated in isolation.
- Kesavananda Bharati Case: The introduction of the ‘Basic Structure’ doctrine ensured that certain core principles of the Constitution could not be amended, safeguarding democratic values. This case remains a cornerstone of constitutional law, ensuring the Constitution’s fundamental framework remains intact against excessive amendments.
These rulings were transformative as they not only strengthened individual rights but also solidified the role of the judiciary in maintaining the essence of the Constitution.
Statements from CJI for UPSC exams:
- “Constitutional doctrine evolves with society, and no generation can monopolize solutions or foresee the future.”
- This highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of the Constitution in response to societal changes.
- “The Indian Constitution thrives as a ‘living document’.”
- This underscores the flexible and adaptive nature of the Indian Constitution, making it relevant in various contexts.
- “The solution lies between a complete abandonment of the Constitution framers’ vision and its uncritical acceptance.”
- This reflects the balanced approach to constitutional interpretation, ensuring neither rigidity nor complete deviation from the framers’ intent.
NOTE: These could be potential essay topics. Try to write an essay on one of the three statements.
