Thu Dec 12 15:41:02 UTC 2024: **Former CJI Lalit Lauds Planned Constitutional Debate in Parliament**
NEW DELHI – Former Chief Justice of India U.U. Lalit has voiced his support for the planned parliamentary debate on the Constitution, calling it a welcome opportunity for introspection and assessment of constitutional progress. In an interview with NDTV, Justice Lalit emphasized the importance of periodically reviewing the nation’s constitutional goals and achievements.
Justice Lalit highlighted the Constitution’s success, noting its evolution through judicial interpretation and amendments. He cited the landmark *Maneka Gandhi* case, which expanded the definition of the right to life under Article 21, ultimately leading to the inclusion of the right to education (Article 21A). He pointed out that while the right to property was removed, the gains from expanding the right to life and education far outweigh the loss.
The former CJI acknowledged that while over 100 constitutional amendments have been made, the truly substantive changes are relatively few. Many amendments, he explained, have been procedural or responsive to Supreme Court judgments, such as those concerning reservation policies. He emphasized the positive impact of amendments like the 106th, which mandates one-third representation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures, demonstrating a move towards inclusivity.
Justice Lalit concluded by stating that the Constitution has served India well, adapting and evolving to meet the changing needs of the nation through judicial interpretation and considered amendments. The planned parliamentary debate, he believes, will further contribute to this ongoing process of refinement and improvement.
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