The Indian Constituent Assembly Debates: An Interpretative Tool

The Indian Constituent Assembly was the first step towards what we know today as the longest constitution of the world. The Constitution of India has evolved through ages with 104 amendments; it has dynamically paved the way to the changing times. This article aims to look into various instances where the constituent assembly debates have been used as an aid to interpretation by the judicial bodies, while also keeping in mind the changes that have taken place in such interpretation. For ease of understanding, the author has divided the paper into two parts i.e. pre 42nd Amendment and post 42nd Amendment. The rationale behind the division of the time line is to give a wider understanding in the changing trend of the reliance placed upon the debates throughout the passage of time. The author aims to exhibit the emphasis laid upon the legal founding document through the course of history.