Chief Justice DY Chandrachud Launches Braille Version of Indian Constitution in West Bengal
On July 12, 2024, Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud, virtually launched the Braille version of the Constitution of India. This significant event was organized by the West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS) in Kolkata, marking a historic step towards inclusivity and accessibility within the legal education ecosystem and the legal profession.
A Milestone for Inclusivity
With the introduction of the Braille version of the Constitution, West Bengal became the third state in India to make the Constitution accessible to the visually impaired. This effort aligns with the broader goal of creating an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of physical ability, has the opportunity to engage with and understand the fundamental legal document of the country.
The Event and Its Significance
The virtual launch event was attended by prominent figures in the legal and educational fields. Speaking at the event, Professor Nirmal Kanti Chakrabarti, Vice-Chancellor of WBNUJS, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “This is a momentous occasion for us at WBNUJS. The Constitution of India in Braille will empower visually impaired persons by giving them direct access to the fundamental legal document of our country. It is an important step towards ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their physical ability, can understand the legislative, executive, and judicial system of India,” he stated.
Contributions and Collaboration
The principal and staff of the Ramakrishna Mission Blind Boys School Academy played a crucial role in developing the Braille version of the Constitution. Their dedication and hard work ensured that the visually impaired can now access and read the Constitution independently. The school's director expressed pride in their contribution, stating, “The idea is great, but also challenging. It’s a nice day that we did it, and that NUJS is committed to people with visual impairment.”
Reading the Constitution in Braille
During the event, a student from the institution read from the Braille version of the Constitution, symbolizing the empowerment and independence this initiative brings to visually impaired individuals. This moment highlighted the practical impact of making legal texts accessible to all, fostering a more inclusive legal community.
West Bengal Joins Maharashtra and Odisha
West Bengal's initiative follows similar efforts by Maharashtra and Odisha, making it the third state in India to provide a Braille version of the Constitution. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the need to make legal documents accessible to all citizens, ensuring that the visually impaired can fully participate in the democratic process.
The Role of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s involvement in the launch underscores the judiciary's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. His support for this initiative highlights the importance of making legal texts available to everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. Justice Chandrachud's leadership in this area sets a precedent for further advancements in accessibility within the legal profession.
The Impact on Legal Education and the Profession
The launch of the Braille version of the Constitution is expected to have a profound impact on legal education and the profession. By making the Constitution accessible to visually impaired students and professionals, this initiative promotes equal opportunities and encourages a more diverse and inclusive legal community. It also serves as a reminder of the legal profession’s responsibility to uphold the principles of equality and justice.
Moving Towards an Inclusive Society
This historic event is a step towards creating a more inclusive society where all individuals have the opportunity to understand and engage with the Constitution. It reflects a commitment to ensuring that the legal system is accessible to everyone, promoting equality and justice for all.
Conclusion
The virtual launch of the Braille version of the Constitution of India by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud at WBNUJS in Kolkata marks a significant milestone in the journey towards inclusivity and accessibility in the legal profession. By making the Constitution accessible to the visually impaired, West Bengal joins Maharashtra and Odisha in fostering an inclusive legal community. This initiative not only empowers visually impaired individuals but also promotes a more diverse and equitable society. As more states follow suit, the dream of a truly inclusive India becomes increasingly attainable.