Constitutional Law Day Celebrations 26th Nov 2024 - Webinar
On the occasion of Constitutional Law Day celebrations, a series of insightful webinars were conducted to delve into critical issues within the constitutional framework of India. Two key sessions stood out for their relevance and depth.
The first webinar, titled "Harmonising Freedom of Speech and Contempt of Court: A Constitutional Perspective," was addressed by Prof. Kama Sai SVM from KLU (Deemed to be University), Vaddeswaram, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh. Prof. Kama Sai SVM explored the delicate balance between safeguarding the freedom of speech guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) and upholding the dignity and authority of the judiciary. Esteemed speakers highlighted how the principle of reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) enables the judiciary to address contempt without stifling legitimate criticism.
The speaker referred to several landmark case laws, including In Re: Arundhati Roy (2002), P. N. Duda v. P. Shiv Shanker (1988), and Prashant Bhushan v. Union of India (2020). He also highlighted Justice Krishna Iyer’s observations in Baradakanta Mishra v. Registrar of Orissa High Court (1974), emphasizing that the judiciary must exhibit magnanimity and endure reasonable scrutiny. He cautioned against the excessive use of contempt laws to stifle dissent, underscoring the importance of maintaining a balance between judicial authority and democratic freedoms. Discussions underscored the need for a nuanced approach to ensure judicial accountability while preserving the democratic spirit of free expression.
The second webinar, titled “Constitutional Safeguards in Labour Laws: Ensuring Justice and Equity for Workers" was addressed by the Prof. Tida Nagabhushanam, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam. He focused on the constitutional provisions underpinning labor rights, including Articles 14, 19, 21, and 23. Experts emphasized the role of labor laws in translating constitutional ideals of equity, dignity, and fair treatment into tangible protections for workers. The session addressed contemporary challenges like gig economy regulations, gender equity, and worker safety, calling for reforms to adapt to evolving socio-economic realities.
The speaker referred to various labor legislations, such as the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, and the Factories Act, 1948, which operationalize constitutional ideals. He emphasized that courts have played a pivotal role in interpreting and expanding these rights. He also cited significant case laws, including Bandhua Mukti Morcha v. Union of India (1984), People’s Union for Democratic Rights v. Union of India (1982), and Delhi Transport Corporation v. DTC Mazdoor Congress (1991). By ensuring justice and equity, constitutional safeguards in labor laws continue to empower workers and uphold their dignity, aligning with the vision of social and economic democracy.
These webinars served as a platform to celebrate India's constitutional ethos, fostering awareness and dialogue on pivotal legal and societal issues.
The Chief Convenor, Prof. Dr. Asha Sundaram, and Convenor, Dr. B. Lavaraju, from the Criminal Law Society, Department of Criminal Law, Saveetha School of Law (SSL), Saveetha University (SIMATS), in association with Convenor Dr. K. Sri Gouri from the Research Club, Saveetha School of Law (SSL), Saveetha University (SIMATS), collaboratively present this initiative.
