ABOUT NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY ODISHA
National Law University Odisha, Cuttack was established by Act 4 of 2008 by the Odisha State Legislature keeping in mind an enunciated vision of advancement of learning, teaching, research, diffusion of knowledge in the field of law and catering to the needs of society by developing the professional skills of those intending to take up the professions of Advocacy, Judicial Services, Legal services, and so on. National Law University, Odisha is committed to providing an atmosphere in which academic excellence is the foremost priority for students. Along the lines of this vision, NLUO has significantly catered to the needs of research in various legal fields by paving way for various dedicated research centres and societies. Such endeavours enable students to pursue individual interests and take part in various literary and recreational activities throughout the academic year.
ABOUT THE CONSTITUTIONAL LAW SOCIETY
The Constitutional Law Society (CLS) is one of NLUO’s initiatives to promote study, research, and informed deliberation in constitutional law and allied subjects with a policy and application-oriented purpose. It was founded in 2018. Its mission is to facilitate discussions and research in constitutional law and related areas, focusing on practical applications. CLS NLUO provides a platform for intellectual discourse through rigorous scholarship, public lectures, seminars, independent research projects, conferences, and collaboration with like-minded individuals and institutions dedicated to constitutional studies.
BACKGROUND TO THE THEME
Despite the 99th Amendment not becoming law, it has been observed time and again that this has not stopped the Government from blocking members it deems against its interests. At the end of the day, every appointment needs the approval of the Prime Minister and the assent of the President. Therefore, the question arises, could NJAC have been the solution to judicial executive cooperation with respect to the appointment of judges, and therefore, by extension, the solution to the problems of vacancy in higher judiciary? Or is it truly infringing upon the basic structure of the constitution by compromising the independence of the judiciary from the executive?
More details about this in the concept note attached herewith.
ABOUT OUR PANELISTS
Mr. Alok Prasanna Kumar is a Co-Founder and Lead at Vidhi Karnataka, specializing in constitutional law, judicial reforms, urban development, and law and technology. A graduate with honors from NALSAR University and a BCL from the University of Oxford, he is a seasoned practitioner with significant contributions in the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court. Mr. Kumar shares his insights through a monthly column in the Economic and Political Weekly and prestigious journals like the Indian Journal of Constitutional Law. He co-hosts the Ganatantra podcast on IVM Podcasts, showcasing his commitment to legal awareness.
Dr. Aditya Sondhi, a distinguished Senior Advocate practicing before the Supreme Court of India and the High Court of Karnataka, is an alumnus of the National Law School of India University. He has served as the Additional Advocate General for Karnataka and holds a PhD in political science from Mysore University. Dr. Sondhi has significantly contributed to ‘The Oxford Handbook of The Indian Constitution.’ Besides his legal career, he is a TEDx speaker, a playwright, and the founder of cultural and intellectual initiatives, including Usherāan amateur theatre circle, the General K S Thimayya Memorial Lectures, the Ravi Sondhi Spirit of Bangalore Lectures, and The PodcasteāConversations Around Caste.
Prof (Dr.) Anupama Goel has been an integral part of the National Law University, Delhi since August 2012. Holding the position of Professor (Law), she has been instrumental in shaping the academic landscape, imparting knowledge in Constitutional Law and International Law to undergraduate students, and facilitating the study of Comparative Public Law for postgraduate students. Beyond her university roles, she is a life member of the Indian Law Institute and an esteemed member of the Indian Society of International Law, New Delhi, highlighting her active participation in legal academic societies. With her expertise in Constitutional Law and International Law, combined with a commitment to academic excellence, she stands as a key figure in the legal education community.
Mr. Prashanto Chandra Sen, a Tier 1-ranked Senior Advocate in Legal 500 Asia Pacific (2022-2023), practices in Delhi and various High Courts, specializing in commercial and public law. Noteworthy for his role in the landmark BALCO case, he navigates disputes in mining, energy, infrastructure, and environment, appearing in top legal forums. Mr. Sen is a core committee member of the ICC India Arbitration Group and contributes significantly to arbitration practices. Beyond litigation, he engages in public law, championing transparency under the RTI Act, and participates in pro bono work for public interest. His contributions also extend to environmental conservation and legislative drafting, reflecting a comprehensive and impactful legal career.
EVENT INFORMATION:
The Panel Discussion will be conductedĀ Online via Google MeetĀ onĀ 26th November, 2023 from 6:30 PM- 8:00 PM. Please join using thisĀ link.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
For any queries or clarifications, please feel free to contact us via email atĀ [email protected].