Perspective on the Constitution
Why the Constitution Matters: The book Why the Constitution Matters is the debut work of Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud, who served as the 50th Chief Justice of India and retired in November 2024. It draws from his nearly 25 years on the bench, blending judicial insight with an urgent call for citizens to connect with constitutional values.
Themes and Approach
Justice Chandrachud presents constitutional principles in simple and clear language, avoiding complex legal jargon. The book examines rights such as free speech, dissent, and privacy, alongside themes of gender equality, pluralism, and environmental justice.
Static GK Tip: The Supreme Court of India is the highest judicial body, established under Article 124 of the Constitution and operational since 28 January 1950.
Author’s Vision
The author describes the book not as a legal commentary, but as a civic guide that invites every citizen to help realise the true spirit of the Constitution. Drawing from landmark cases—including decriminalisation of homosexuality, right to privacy, and gender equality in armed forces—he connects judicial principles with daily life.
Static GK fact: The basic structure doctrine, established in Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973) and reaffirmed in Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980), limits Parliament’s amending power to protect the core framework of the Constitution.
Style and Significance
The book captures Justice Chandrachud’s journey in the judiciary, making constitutional values relatable to both legal professionals and ordinary citizens. It demonstrates how court rulings influence social change and uphold democratic ideals.
Static GK Tip: Justice D.Y. Chandrachud served as Chief Justice of India from 9 November 2022 to 10 November 2024 and was elevated to the Supreme Court in May 2016.
Civic Call to Action
Part memoir and part manifesto, the book comes at a time when constitutional values face challenges. It urges readers to view the Constitution as a living document central to democracy, justice, and equality in India.
Static GK fact: The Chief Justice of India is appointed by the President of India under Article 124(2). As per the Second Judges Case (1993), appointments follow the principle of seniority.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Why the Constitution Matters:
| Topic | Detail |
| Book | Why the Constitution Matters by Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud, former Chief Justice of India |
| Publication | Scheduled publication by Penguin Random House in August 2025 |
| Author’s Tenure | Served as CJI from November 2022 to November 2024; Supreme Court Judge since May 2016 |
| Key Themes | Right to privacy, decriminalisation of homosexuality, gender equality in armed forces, free speech, pluralism, environmental justice |
| Purpose | To simplify constitutional ideas and motivate citizens to engage with India’s democratic framework |
