Day 16: “From Constituent Assembly to Constitutional Morality: The Journey of Affirmative Actions in India” by Hon'ble Mr. Justice Uday Umesh Lalit, Former Chief Justice of India

Event Date: 16th January 2026

Event brief description

The concluding lecture of the Masterclass Series delivered by Hon’ble Mr. Justice Uday Umesh Lalit, Former Chief Justice of India, brought the academic engagement on affirmative action and constitutional morality to a thoughtful close. The session revisited the central themes discussed throughout the series and synthesized historical, doctrinal, and comparative perspectives on equality.

Justice Lalit emphasized that affirmative action must be viewed as part of the Constitution’s transformative framework aimed at achieving substantive equality rather than mere formal equality. He highlighted that constitutional morality serves as a guiding principle requiring institutions and citizens to uphold values of dignity, inclusion, and social justice. Reflecting on contemporary debates, he noted that affirmative action policies continue to evolve through judicial interpretation and democratic dialogue.

The lecture also encouraged students to critically examine questions of merit, fairness, and representation in light of constitutional values. Justice Lalit underscored that equality jurisprudence must remain sensitive to social realities and structural disadvantages. The session concluded with an interactive discussion, reinforcing the importance of informed constitutional reasoning. The final lecture successfully consolidated the learning from the series and inspired participants to engage deeply with the Constitution’s vision of justice.

Event Detailed Description

The valedictory session of the Masterclass Series on “From Constituent Assembly to Constitutional Morality: The Journey of Affirmative Actions in India” was held on 16th January 2026, featuring Hon’ble Mr. Justice Uday Umesh Lalit, Former Chief Justice of India. The concluding lecture served as a synthesis of the themes explored throughout the series and provided a reflective outlook on the future of affirmative action in India.

Justice Lalit revisited the constitutional foundations of affirmative action, situating them within the broader framework of India’s commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He explained that the framers of the Constitution envisioned equality as a substantive guarantee that acknowledges historical and social disadvantages. Affirmative action, therefore, was described not as an exception to equality but as a tool to realize its true meaning.

The lecture highlighted how constitutional morality requires continuous engagement with the values of fairness, dignity, and inclusiveness. Justice Lalit emphasized that courts play a crucial role in balancing competing claims of equality while remaining faithful to constitutional principles. He observed that debates around reservations, merit, and social justice must be approached with constitutional sensitivity rather than narrow formalism.

Students were encouraged to view the Constitution as a living document that evolves with societal needs. Justice Lalit stressed that transformative constitutionalism requires both legal interpretation and civic commitment. He also noted that comparative constitutional perspectives enrich Indian jurisprudence by offering broader insights into equality and rights-based frameworks.

The session concluded with a vibrant interaction where students raised thoughtful questions on contemporary reservation policies, the role of the judiciary, and the future trajectory of affirmative action. Justice Lalit’s responses emphasized reasoned dialogue and constitutional literacy.

The concluding lecture successfully encapsulated the intellectual journey of the Masterclass Series. It deepened participants’ understanding of constitutional morality and reaffirmed the role of law as an instrument of social transformation. The session left students and faculty with lasting insights into how constitutional values shape public policy and democratic governance.

Department Name: School of Law

Event Outcome

The concluding session marked a successful culmination of the Masterclass Series, strengthening students’ understanding of affirmative action, constitutional morality, and substantive equality. Participants developed a nuanced appreciation of how constitutional principles operate in addressing social inequalities. The lecture fostered critical thinking, meaningful dialogue, and constitutional awareness among students. The strong engagement and interactive discussion reflected the academic value of the series and reinforced the School of Law’s commitment to promoting constitutional literacy and socially relevant legal education.

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