Fraternity and Minority Thought in Indian Constitutionalism: Ambedkar’s and Azad’s Vision for Democracy

This paper examines the intersection of minority thought and the concept of fraternity in the writings of B.R. Ambedkar and Abul Kalam Azad in the context of Indian independence (1947–1950). Both figures envisioned democracy as a participatory process, anchored in mutual understanding among diverse groups, and essential for shaping a cohesive political community. Fraternity, as articulated by Ambedkar and Azad, was central to this vision, offering an ethical framework for sustaining pluralistic democracy in postcolonial India. Ambedkar’s conception of fraternity drew on Buddhist principles of interconnectedness and mutual responsibility, advocating for caste annihilation as a prerequisite for genuine democracy. He argued that recognizing one’s good in the good of others was critical to achieving social justice and political equality. Similarly, Azad’s Islamic perspective on fraternity emphasized the moral imperative of solidarity and dialogue across religious and social divides. For Azad, fraternity was not merely a sentiment but a practical ethos, rooted in Islamic traditions of inclusivity and coexistence. Set against the backdrop of India’s transition from colonial rule to constitutional democracy, this paper situates their ideas within the broader anticolonial struggle. By analyzing their writings and speeches during this period, it explores how their minority perspectives provided counter-narratives to majoritarian tendencies during constitution framing in India. Ultimately, this study highlights the enduring relevance of Ambedkar and Azad’s contributions to pluralistic conceptions of democracy in India. Their emphasis on fraternity as a democratic principle offers valuable insights into addressing the challenges Indian constitutionalism faces today in fostering a more inclusive political community.