Former Chief Justice of India Dr. Justice D. Y. Chandrachud delivered the 11th Founder’s Oration at Ganga Hospital on Friday, describing healthcare as a “constitutional act” rooted in dignity and compassion.
The event, held at the hospital auditorium, was presided over by Dr. R. V. Ramani, Managing Trustee of the Sankara Eye Foundation. Dr. S. Raja Sabapathy presented the Welcome Address, and Dr. S. Rajasekaran delivered the Vote of Thanks.
Speaking on the theme “Constitutional Culture, Citizenship and Civic Virtue – a Moral Compass for the Nation,” Dr. Chandrachud drew deep parallels between the practice of medicine and constitutional values, emphasising that both place human dignity at their core.
He highlighted Ganga Hospital’s rise from a 17-bed facility in 1978 to a 650-bed global super-specialty centre, noting that such growth was driven by a commitment to humane care rather than scale alone. Treating over 20,000 trauma patients annually, the hospital, he said, restores not only limbs but livelihoods. “Care is a constitutional act; dignity is its language,” he remarked, calling healthcare providers “custodians of public welfare” who translate constitutional promises—such as the Right to Life and Equality—into lived reality.
Dr. Chandrachud praised Dr. S. Rajasekaran for approaching the Supreme Court in 2012 on India’s road safety crisis, demonstrating how medical professionals can influence legal reform to save lives.
He observed that the Constitution “lives through people,” shaped not only by institutions but by the moral fibre and daily actions of citizens. Recalling how a nurse comforted a distressed mother after a long shift, he said such compassion reflects the true essence of justice.
Citing the story of a migrant worker who travelled long distances believing “someone will look at me,” he underscored the universal human need for dignity and recognition.
As India nears 75 years of its Constitution, he urged renewed commitment to constitutional culture, responsible citizenship, and strong civic virtue, reminding that each generation must defend democratic values—even when “freedom feels burdensome.”
