India
Constitution Day: Who were members of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution | India News – Times of India
Dr. BR Ambedkar (Chair): Hailed as the chief architect of the Constitution, Ambedkar was a renowned scholar, social reformer and the first law minister of independent India.
- A staunch supporter of social justice, he ensured that the Constitution upheld the principles of equality, liberty and fraternity, while focusing on protecting the rights of marginalized communities.
T.T. Krishnamachari (Joined January 1948): Krishnamachari, a veteran administrator and politician, was brought into the committee after the death of a member. Known for his sharp intellect, he contributed to the debates on economic and administrative structures and helped refine key provisions in the draft constitution.
Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar : Ayyar, a leading lawyer and advocate, was instrumental in formulating the draft’s legal and constitutional framework. He played an important role in balancing federalism with the unitary structure and ensuring judicial independence.
- KM Munshi: A writer, lawyer and political leader, Munshi brought a cultural and historical perspective to the writing process. He advocated the inclusion of the directive principles of state policy and provisions relating to linguistic and cultural rights.
- N Gopalaswami Ayyangar: Former Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Ayyangar was a key figure in shaping the administrative aspects of the Constitution. His insights were crucial in designing the parliamentary structure and special provisions for Jammu and Kashmir. He also drafted Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir.
- Mohammad Saadulla: Lawyer-politician Saadulla, who hails from Assam, has contributed to discussions on minority rights and federalism, bringing forward a perspective from the northeastern region and ensuring inclusivity in the governance framework.
- Debi Prasad Khaitan (d. 1948): A leading lawyer and legislator from Bengal, Khaitan’s contributions in the early stages of the drafting process were significant. His premature death in 1948 left a void, but his work laid the foundation for many progressive facilities.
- N Madhava Rao: Rao, a respected executive, brought his expertise in governance to the committee. He played a role in shaping provisions regarding administrative reforms and institutional frameworks.
- BL Mitter: Mitter, a leading legal expert, initially contributed to the editorial process but resigned due to health reasons. His early input on legal structures and judicial mechanisms was invaluable in shaping the Constitution. Mitter is also said to have made an important contribution to the integration of the princely states with India.
