A significant addition to Indian constitutional literature was unveiled today as Justice BR Gavai, former Chief Justice of India, released the new book “The Constitution of India: Commentary Through Case Law” authored by Senior Advocate Dama Seshadri Naidu along with Advocate-on-Record Ravi Prakash. The Book is published by Mohan Law House. The release ceremony was graced by distinguished judges of the Supreme Court of India, including Justice Vikram Nath, Justice MM Sundresh, and Justice Prasanna Bhalachandra Varale, who collectively commended the scholarly contribution of the authors.
Described as a meticulous and accessible narrative on India’s supreme legal document, the book offers a comprehensive, article-wise analysis of the Constitution, enriched with landmark judicial pronouncements, interpretative evolution, and insights into the constitutional philosophy that guides the world’s largest democracy.
In his message in the Introduction to the book, Justice BR Gavai notes that the Constitution’s vitality lies in its adaptability balancing permanence with change while remaining rooted in foundational principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He commends the authors for bridging the gap between constitutional text and judicial interpretation, highlighting their success in making complex doctrines accessible to students, lawyers, academics, and citizens.
In the Foreword, Justice Surya Kant, now Chief Justice of India describes the Indian Constitution as “an endearing dream, both living and transformative,” noting that the Supreme Court’s evolving jurisprudence has shaped its democratic promise. He applauds the authors for their “laborious and meticulous research” and for providing a reader-friendly guide that consolidates constitutional principles with clarity and precision. He further observes that the work stands poised to become an essential companion for legal professionals and the general public alike.
About the Book
The commentary is rooted in a deep examination of:
The philosophical foundations of the Constitution
Judicial interpretation as the engine of constitutional evolution
Affirmative action, equality jurisprudence, and federalism
Key debates from the Constituent Assembly
A rich repository of precedents, including cases such as NM Thomas, Indra Sawhney, and EV Chinnaiah
The Constitution’s dynamic adaptability through amendments and landmark rulings
The book offers article-by-article explanations supported by judicial reasoning, making it a practical “ready reckoner” for courts, law schools, public institutions, and constitutional enthusiasts.