Penguin Random House has announced the upcoming release of Why the Constitution Matters, a thought-provoking new book by Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud, the 50th Chief Justice of India. The book will be published at the end of August 2025.
In this timely work, Justice Chandrachud draws from his decades-long legal career and landmark judgments to explain why the Indian Constitution is more than a legal framework, it is the foundation of democracy, justice, and equality in the country.
Covering topics such as the right to dissent, free speech, privacy, gender equality, disability rights, and environmental justice, he provides readers with a clear and accessible understanding of constitutional values and their impact on everyday life.
Speaking about his debut as an author, Justice Chandrachud said, “The book attempts to weave together my experiences of law, justice and judging in a career of nearly twenty-five years on the bench. It is an invocation to every citizen to engage in realising the true potential of the Constitution.”
Milee Ashwarya, Publisher and Senior VP of the Adult Publishing Group at Penguin Random House India, called the work “a must-read for all citizens of the country,” praising its focus on preserving the spirit of India’s democracy.
Why the Constitution Matters is expected to serve as both a guide and an inspiration for anyone interested in understanding and upholding the values that define the Republic.
Book Blurb
Why the Constitution Matters: Selected Speeches | Justice D.Y. Chandrachud on Fundamental Rights, Landmark Judgments & the Constitution’s Role in Safeguarding Democracy
In Why the Constitution Matters Justice D.Y. Chandrachud delves into the profound significance of the Constitution in shaping the nation’s identity and governance. This insightful book offers readers a nuanced understanding of the Constitution’s role in protecting fundamental rights, ensuring justice and maintaining the rule of law. The author brings to the forefront his experience of nearly twenty-five years as a judge, making complex constitutional principles accessible to both legal professionals and common citizens. Through engaging narratives and real-life examples, he illustrates how the Constitution impacts everyday life and why it remains a cornerstone of democracy. The book covers themes such as democracy, free speech, pluralism, gender, environmental governance, dissent and landmark judgments that have shaped modern India.
Why the Constitution Matters is not just a book for legal scholars; it is a must-read for anyone who values democracy, justice and the rule of law. Discover why the Constitution is more than just a document; it is the foundation of a just and equitable society.