NATURAL LAW IN INDIAN CONSTITUTIONALISM: THE JURISPRUDENTIAL FOUNDATIONS OF JUSTICE, LIBERTY, AND EQUALITY

AUTHOR – SRIDAR BALAJI S, STUDENT AT KMC COLLEGE OF LAW

BEST CITATION – SRIDAR BALAJI S, NATURAL LAW IN INDIAN CONSTITUTIONALISM: THE JURISPRUDENTIAL FOUNDATIONS OF JUSTICE, LIBERTY, AND EQUALITY, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (12) OF 2025, PG. 203-207, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

ABSTRACT

Natural law theory asserts that certain rights are inherent to human existence, arising from universal moral principles rather than being solely the product of legislative enactments. This paper explores the integration of natural law ideals into the Indian constitutional framework, demonstrating how justice, liberty, and equality—enshrined in the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles—draw upon this philosophical tradition. Through an examination of key judicial decisions, it analyses how the Supreme Court of India has applied natural law reasoning to interpret and expand constitutional rights. The study also addresses criticisms and the need for a balanced approach that respects both moral ideals and democratic processes. In addition to jurisprudential analysis, this research situates the Indian experience within global debates and existing scholarly literature, offering a comprehensive understanding of natural law in constitutionalism.