Gujarat, Jan 1, (LAB) Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra of the Supreme Court emphasized India’s unique potential to shape global governance in diverse societies through its constitutional principles.
Delivering the keynote address at the inaugural session of the National Council Meeting of the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad in Gujarat on Friday, Justice Mishra spoke on the theme, “Fraternity — Spirit of the Constitution”.
Justice Mishra outlined the Supreme Court’s role in upholding the principle of fraternity, the challenges to fostering unity in diversity, and the collective responsibility required to ensure a harmonious society. Justice Sameer Dave of the Gujarat High Court also attended the event.
Highlighting India’s constitutional approach to managing diversity, Justice
Mishra stated, “Countries worldwide are watching India’s unique experiment in
managing diversity through constitutional means. Our success in upholding
fraternity while respecting diversity can serve as a model for other
multicultural societies.” India can be a
model for diversity governance, Justice Mishra said.
He described fraternity as an evolving, dynamic concept that underpins justice, liberty, and equality. “Fraternity is not a destination but a journey — a journey toward a more just, inclusive, and harmonious society. As custodians of the Constitution, we bear the solemn responsibility of nurturing this spirit in all that we do,” he added.
Speaking about the challenges to Fraternity, Justice Mishra said that the rise of divisive rhetoric, identity politics, and misuse of digital platforms as major obstacles to fraternity.
He cautioned against the divisive rhetoric and narratives that pit communities against one another, stating, “Such rhetoric weakens the unity envisioned by the Constitution and leads to mistrust, stereotypes, and social unrest.”
He noted the growing misuse of online platforms for spreading hate speech and misinformation, saying, “Anonymity emboldens people to engage in abusive behavior, deepening societal polarization.”
Justice Mishra stressed that there should be a collective responsibility among the fraternity which demands
active commitment from every citizen, institution, and leader.
“It is through collective effort that we strengthen the foundations of our democracy and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future,” he said.
He called for laws that address systemic inequalities and foster social cohesion. He also urged the legal fraternity to play a proactive role in promoting constitutional values, emphasizing mediation, reconciliation, and accessible judgments that reflect fraternity.
Talking about the fraternity in constitutional jurisprudence, Justice Mishra noted that the Supreme Court has consistently reinforced fraternity through landmark judgments. In the case of S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994) the Supreme Court established secularism as part of the Constitution’s basic structure, emphasizing mutual respect among communities.
In Tehseen S. Poonawallav. Union of India (2018), The Apex Court issued guidelines to curb lynching and promote harmony.
In Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018), The Supreme Court decriminalized Section 377 IPC, reinforcing respect for diverse identities.
In Janhit Abhiyan v. Union of India (2020), the Apex Court validated EWS reservations, addressing economic inequality through fraternity.
Justice Mishra concluded by urging collaboration among educational institutions, civil society organizations, and the media to promote empathy, solidarity, and constitutional values. “By incorporating lessons on fraternity into education, we can inspire a new generation of citizens who prioritize community and compassion,” he said.
The event’s focus on fraternity underscored its vital role in preserving the unity and integrity of India while respecting individual dignity — a principle Justice Mishra deemed essential for building an inclusive and cohesive society./LAB/