The Courts and the Constitution: NALSAR University of Law Hosts Fifth Annual Conference, Spotlighting Recent Judicial Trends in Public Law
(Judicial Quest News Network)
In a prestigious gathering of legal minds, the NALSAR University of Law, in collaboration with Azim Premji University and the Law and Other Things blog, convened the fifth edition of “The Courts and the Constitution” conference. This annual event serves as a beacon for discussing contemporary issues in public law, aiming to foster dialogue on constitutional matters that shape governance and citizens’ rights.
The highlight of this year’s conference was the keynote address delivered by the esteemed Honourable Justice B. V. Nagarathna, a Judge of the Supreme Court. With eloquence and insight, Justice Nagarathna emphasized the imperative for the judicial process to withstand public scrutiny, emphasizing the pivotal role of forums like this conference in addressing constitutional concerns. Reflecting on the Supreme Court’s 75-year journey, she provided a comprehensive overview of key judgments from the past year. These rulings encompassed pivotal issues such as demonetization, sealed cover jurisprudence, marriage equality, reproductive rights, and electoral bonds.
Justice Nagarathna also cautioned against instances of gubernatorial overreach, citing cases like the Governor of Punjab’s actions regarding pending bills and the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly case. Her address culminated in a call to rededicate ourselves to the enduring principles of the Constitution, reaffirming the judiciary’s role in upholding justice.
The inaugural session further enriched by the insights of distinguished jurists from neighbouring countries, including Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla of the Supreme Court of Nepal and Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Notable figures such as Justice Alok Aradhe, Chief Justice of the High Court of Telangana, and Professor Srikrishna Deva Rao, Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR, also contributed to the session.
Spanning two days, the conference comprises six panels delving into diverse legal realms. Panels such as “Electoral Laws and Democratic Legitimacy” and “Indian Federalism” promise insightful discussions on recent legal developments. The conference extends its purview to the broader South Asian region, with panels exploring the adjudication of socio-economic rights across SAARC countries.
Culminating with a book discussion featuring prominent legal scholars Arvind Narrain and Sitharamam Kakarala, the conference underscores its commitment to fostering intellectual discourse and advancing legal scholarship.
As the curtains draw on yet another enlightening edition of “The Courts and the Constitution,” attendees depart with enriched perspectives and renewed dedication to the enduring principles of law and justice.
