An Analytical Inquiry Into Ethical Justice: A Case Study Of Aditya Birla Group
- IJLLR Journal
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Ritesh Deshmukh, B.B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), Department of Law, Himachal Pradesh National Law University, Shimla, India
Samvaad Anand, B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), Department of Law, Himachal Pradesh National Law University, Shimla, India
ABSTRACT
This study examines the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of the Aditya Birla Group through the philosophical lens of Mahatma Gandhi's ideals of justice, exploring how contemporary corporate practices can embody principles of trusteeship, equity, and sustainable development. In India, CSR has gained legislative significance through Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, transforming corporate obligations toward social welfare. The Aditya Birla Group, as one of India's leading multinational conglomerates, exemplifies how businesses can function as agents of social transformation while maintaining financial viability.
Gandhi's concept of trusteeship—which posits that wealth and resources are held in trust for societal welfare rather than personal gain—provides the theoretical framework for analyzing the group's CSR activities. The study investigates how the Aditya Birla Group's comprehensive initiatives across education, healthcare, rural development, environmental sustainability, and women's empowerment align with Gandhian principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and equitable resource distribution.
The research reveals that the group's educational programs serving over 45,000 children, vocational training empowering 200,000 individuals, healthcare interventions reaching millions in underserved areas, and environmental conservation efforts reflect a holistic approach to justice- oriented CSR. These initiatives demonstrate practical applications of trusteeship by addressing systemic inequalities and prioritizing marginalized communities' needs. The group's focus on rural development and self- reliance particularly resonates with Gandhi's vision of village upliftment as fundamental to national progress.
However, the study also identifies challenges in implementing Gandhian philosophy within profit-driven business environments, including concerns about transparency, measuring long-term impact, and avoiding tokenistic practices. The findings suggest that integrating Gandhian ideals into corporate governance offers a viable pathway for businesses to balance profitability with social responsibility, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable society while honouring Gandhi's enduring legacy in contemporary corporate ethics.
Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Gandhian Philosophy, Trusteeship, Business Ethics, Social Justice, Aditya Birla Group
