The architect of two nations' constitutions who worked largely behind the scenes
In short: Before the Drafting Committee of India began its work, a single advisor had already laid the foundation. Sir B. N. Rau traveled across continents to consult global legal giants, crafting the initial drafts that would shape the democratic frameworks of both India and Burma.
Sir Benegal Narsing Rau was a polymathic civil servant whose influence spanned the highest levels of international law and diplomacy. A scholar who earned a triple first degree in English, Physics, and Sanskrit from the University of Madras in 1905, he later achieved mathematical distinction at Cambridge. His legal career was marked by immense versatility, serving as a judge of the Bengal High Court, the Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, and eventually a judge at the International Court of Justice in The Hague.
His most lasting impact stems from serving as the Constituent Assembly of India's advisor on constitutional matters. In 1946, he undertook an extensive research mission through the US, Canada, Ireland, and the UK. During this period, he consulted with luminaries such as US Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurter, who famously cautioned Rau against including a 'due process' clause to avoid placing an undue burden on the judiciary. The rough draft Rau prepared was the essential precursor to the text scrutinized by B. R. Ambedkar’s Drafting Committee.
His expertise was not limited to India; in 1946, following an invitation from Burmese Prime Minister U Aung San, Rau assisted in drafting the Constitution of Burma. He even traveled to Rangoon to witness its final passage in September 1947. Beyond constitutionalism, Rau navigated the complexities of mid-century geopolitics, representing India at the United Nations Security Council and presiding over the council during the June 1950 recommendation for armed assistance in the Korean War. He passed away in Zurich in 1953 while serving on the International Court of Justice.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: B. N. Rau
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/places-b-n-rau.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Cities · More in Countries & Cities · Latest · A–Z · All topics
