DY Chandrachud’s journey
Why the Constitution Still Speaks to India: Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud served as the 50th CJI before retiring in November 2024. Known for his progressive rulings on privacy, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and free speech, he earned recognition as a liberal constitutionalist. His debut book, Why the Constitution Matters, marks his entry into the literary world in 2025.
Static GK fact: The post of Chief Justice of India was established in 1950, with H. J. Kania as the first CJI.
A book for every citizen
The book is not a dense legal commentary but a public invitation to engage with constitutional values. Published by Penguin Random House, it simplifies complex legal ideas into narratives that resonate with everyday life. The text blends judicial insights from over 25 years on the bench with reflections on governance, liberty, and rights.
Static GK fact: Penguin Random House is among the largest global publishing houses, headquartered in New York City.
Key themes in the book
The central theme is that the Constitution is a living document. Justice Chandrachud explains how it shapes daily experiences like privacy, education, equality, and justice.
- Judicial responsibility: Judges interpreting the Constitution to deliver social justice.
- Citizen engagement: Why awareness of rights strengthens democracy.
- Human rights and equality: Expansion of rights in a diverse society.
- Secularism and liberty: Safeguards protecting pluralism in India.
Static GK Tip: The Constitution of India is the world’s longest written constitution, originally adopted on 26 January 1950.
Why it matters today
The book stresses that the Constitution is not just a legal code but a moral compass. In times of political polarization, it defends freedoms, ensures accountability, and protects the marginalized. Chandrachud urges citizens, especially students, to see the Constitution as relevant to real life rather than a distant text.
Takeaways for aspirants
For civil service aspirants and law students, this book provides clarity on constitutional interpretation. It highlights how judicial reasoning connects principles with outcomes. By bridging academic law and citizen awareness, it builds a democratic culture rooted in values.
Static GK fact: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar is regarded as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Why the Constitution Still Speaks to India:
| Topic | Detail |
| Author | DY Chandrachud |
| Book title | Why the Constitution Matters |
| Publisher | Penguin Random House |
| Year of release | 2025 |
| Position held | 50th Chief Justice of India |
| Retirement | November 2024 |
| Judicial focus | Privacy, equality, LGBTQ+ rights, free speech |
| Central theme | Constitution as a living document |
| First CJI of India | H. J. Kania |
| Chief architect of Constitution | B. R. Ambedkar |
