Seminar on “Constitution and Constitutionalism: The Philosophy of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar” Held at the University of Allahabad.
Prayagraj, November 1, 2025:
The University of Allahabad organized a thought-provoking seminar on “Constitution and Constitutionalism: The Philosophy of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar” on Saturday. The distinguished event was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, Justice B. R. Gavai, as the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Justice Vikram Nath of the Supreme Court of India, Hon’ble Chief Justice Arun Bhansali of the Allahabad High Court, and Prof. Sangita Srivastava, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Allahabad.
The dignitaries inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp, followed by the soulful rendition of the University’s Kulgeet. The 15 UP NCC Battalion presented a Guard of Honour to the guests. During the ceremony, Hon’ble CJI Justice B. R. Gavai was also felicitated with a Certificate of Honour by the University.
CJI Gavai on the Spirit of Indian Democracy
In his address, Chief Justice of India Justice B. R. Gavai emphasized that the soul of Indian democracy lies within the Constitution itself. He noted that, unlike many countries where federal and state constitutions operate separately, India functions under one unified Constitution for both the Union and the States.
He explained that India’s judicial system — progressing from district courts to High Courts and the Supreme Court — has made the concept of justice accessible to all. Referring to nations such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, he remarked that India’s stable democracy is rooted in its constitutional framework.
Defending the collegium system, Justice Gavai stated that judicial appointments are made through a comprehensive process involving both the state and central governments, as well as various agencies. He credited Dr. B. R. Ambedkar for establishing single citizenship and dividing the nation’s power structure into the legislature, executive, and judiciary, ensuring the independence of the judiciary.
Calling Article 32 the “soul of the Constitution”, the Chief Justice remarked that without it, the Constitution would be lifeless. He underscored that the balance of power between the Centre and the States is vital for a functional democracy.
He further stated that the right to life under the Constitution includes access to food, clean air, water, and education. Justice Gavai highlighted unity in diversity, equality, and fraternity as the true essence of India. He concluded by saying that the Constitution lives not merely in its pages but in the hearts of the Indian people.
Justice Vikram Nath on Ambedkar’s Vision
Hon’ble Justice Vikram Nath described Dr. B. R. Ambedkar as the architect of the Indian Constitution, whose ideas of liberalism and social justice shaped modern India. He emphasized that no one stands above the Constitution, and recalled Dr. Ambedkar’s fight against caste, gender, and social discrimination.
Justice Nath said that Justice Gavai’s tenure as Chief Justice of India will continue to inspire young legal minds across the nation.
Justice Arun Bhansali on Ambedkar’s Moral Promise
Hon’ble Chief Justice Arun Bhansali of the Allahabad High Court highlighted that Dr. Ambedkar’s vision went far beyond drafting a legal document — it embodied a moral promise of liberty, equality, and fraternity. He stated that the Constitution is a tool to remove inequality and untouchability and that constitutional morality is the key to the success of Indian democracy.
Vice-Chancellor’s Presidential Address
Delivering the Presidential Address, Prof. Sangita Srivastava, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Allahabad, expressed pride in hosting the Chief Justice of India. Using Ralph Waldo Emerson’s poetry, she beautifully reflected on the personality and vision of Justice B. R. Gavai.
She reminded the audience that the University of Allahabad is India’s fourth-oldest centre of higher education and has nurtured countless national leaders and scholars. “Education is the true builder of a nation,” she said, while presenting an overview of the university’s current achievements.
Prof. Srivastava informed that the University of Allahabad is currently the third most popular Central University in India in terms of national rankings. She concluded by extending heartfelt gratitude to all the dignitaries and participants.
Inauguration of New Academic Buildings
On this historic occasion, CJI Justice B. R. Gavai, Justice Vikram Nath, Chief Justice Arun Bhansali, and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sangita Srivastava inaugurated three newly constructed buildings at the University — the New Chemistry Building, the Lecture Theatre Complex, and the Central Library Reading Hall — marking a new chapter in the university’s growth and infrastructure development.
Welcome and Acknowledgements
The seminar commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Sonal Shankar, who highlighted the importance of the theme. The event witnessed the presence of Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members, and students from various faculties.
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