The Constituent Assembly Debates (CADs) represent one of the most remarkable manifestations of democratic deliberation in modern Indian history. Convened between 1946 and 1950, the Assembly exchanged over 1600 sessions across 165 days to craft the Constitution of India.

Key figures - such as B. R. Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad - played pivotal roles in championing debates over fundamental rights, federal structure, social justice, language policies, and the Preamble’s spirit . For instance, Ambedkar advocated strongly for reservations and the abolition of untouchability, laying the foundation for constitutional social equity . The Assembly also grappled extensively with decentralization and unity, ensuring federalism suited India’s diversity.

Beyond substance, the CADs serve as a constitutional compass—informing interpretation in modern jurisprudence. Indian courts frequently refer to these debates to discern the framers’ intent, particularly in ambiguous or evolving contexts.