At the inaugural address of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar First Memorial Lecture, an event organized by the Government of Delhi , to commemorate Ambedkar Jayanti, Justice B.R. Gavai of the Supreme Court, hailed Ambedkar’s vision of a unified India , one that transcends personal biases associated with caste and ideology. Highlighting Ambedkar’s dedication on the occasion, Justice Gavai recalled his early involvement in the Constituent Assembly aimed to safeguard the interests of marginalized groups, and his work ultimately resulted in a lasting Constitution that has endured for over 75 years.

The focus of his lecture was on Dr Ambedkar’s significant contribution to the Indian Constitution and the process of nation building. Gavai remarked that it is this relationship with the constitution which played a pivotal role in his own personal journey allowing him to ascend to the judiciary.

He underscored the progress India has made, acknowledging the contributions of elected Scheduled caste Presidents, Shri K. R. Narayanan and Ram Nath Kovind and women Presidents Smt. Pratibha Patil and Smt. Draupadi Murmu as well as Speakers Shri. Balyogi , Smt. Meira Kumar and Smt. Sumitra Mahajan.

In discussing the landmark Kesavananda Bharati judgment, Justice Gavai remarked on its significance in establishing the basic structure doctrine and ensuring that state policies align with fundamental rights. He asserted that many legislative measures, while previously upheld, had conflicted with these fundamental principles, highlighting the ongoing need for adherence to the core tenets of the Constitution.

Justice Gavai also expressed deep admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting his humble roots and affiliation with the backward classes emphasizing that the Prime Minister takes pride in attributing his rise to the principles enshrined in the Constitution.