CJI Gavai Backs Article 370 Abrogation, Cites Ambedkar’s Vision of Unity

29 June, 2025:

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai has supported the removal of Article 370, stating that the decision reflects the ideals and vision of Dr. BR Ambedkar, who was the main creator of the Indian Constitution. 

At the opening of the Constitution Preamble Park at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar School of Law at Nagpur University on Saturday, Chief Justice Gavai emphasized that Dr. Ambedkar never saw the need for a separate constitution for any state. He highlighted Dr. Ambedkar's commitment to a united and integrated India. 

CJI Gavai was part of the five-judge Constitution Bench, led by then Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, that unanimously supported the Centre's decision to remove Article 370. He reflected on the importance of a unified constitutional framework.

While speaking to the audience, he said, "When Article 370 was challenged, it came before us, and as we began the hearing, I remembered Dr. Babasaheb's words that one Constitution is suited for a country... If we want to keep the country united, we need only one Constitution." 

Justice Gavai noted that Babasaheb Ambedkar faced criticism for having a constitution that was too federal and feared the country might not stay united in times of war. "Babasaheb answered that criticism by saying the Constitution is neither entirely central nor federal. Look at the situation in our neighboring countries, like Pakistan, Bangladesh, or Sri Lanka. Whenever our country faces challenges, it has remained united," Justice Gavai stated.

He described the Constitution as a “remarkable document” that guarantees social, economic, and political justice. Chief Justice Gavai credited Dr. Ambedkar’s visionary framework with laying the foundation of Indian democracy and significantly influencing his own life and career.