Nehru's Conception of Equality

By : Upendra Baxi

Page No: 391-398

Abstract
In this article,# the author explains how Nehru viewed ‘equality’ as ‘real’ or ‘definite’ rather than ‘abstract’ or ‘metaphysical’ virtue. The author reveals the ‘Prime Minister’ and ‘political philosopher’ aspects of Nehru vis-à-vis the concept of ‘equality’ and, citing certain constitutional provisions, brings-out the conflict between the two facets of his personality in regard to equality. The author explains how Nehru viewed the Constitution as a means to ensure equality in the country and in the process viewed the ‘lawyerly culture’ as a potential obstacle in the task of transforming constitutional India into a radically egalitarian Indian society. The author highlights the secular aspects of Nehru and how he considered constitutional secularism as the only and the best way to realise the spirit of equality. The author elabortes the views of Nehru regarding caste-system in India and explains how caste-system militates against the concept of equality. The author also briefly narrates the views on equality of the troika of Nehru, Gandhi and Ambedkar highlighting that a comparative analysis of their conception of equality has been wanting and desired.

Author :
Upendra Baxi : Former Vice-Chancellor, University of Delhi.