A Glimpse into our New 3-Year LLB (Hons) Cohort | AY 2024-25
July 17, 2024
We are excited to welcome our next batch of the 3-Year LLB (Hons) programme for AY 2024-25! This year, we welcome our third batch of bright and motivated graduates to this programme at our University. With this new set of students, the 3 year LLB programme now has all three years of the programme in place for the first time at NLS.
At the beginning of every Academic Year, we reach out to some of our students from the new cohorts in an attempt to capture the diverse backgrounds of our students as well as their personal journeys that led them to NLS. Our 3-Year LLB cohort comprises students from across various educational disciplines. We spoke to a few of our new students from the incoming batch who shared their goals and interests. We wish them the best for their academic journeys ahead.
Smruti Ranjan Maharana
My journey so far: It was just another day in school when I first realised the messiness of the social world around me. As a kid, I was very confused about my immediate conditions in a caste-burdened society that was not only unquestionable but replete with incomprehensibility. Being born to a marginal-caste community in a small village in Odisha, the everyday experience of caste has always prompted me to question the status quo. In school, we were told that everybody was equal, but I was finding it difficult to believe. Due to a lack of resources, I studied in the regional board. I would say that it was difficult because there was nobody to advise me on existing possibilities to choose from. Nevertheless, my interest in humanities provided me with a space to critically reflect on the structural and historical moorings of caste, class and gender. I decided to study Political Science in college while hoping to further my interest in state-society relations, particularly the idea of justice from the margins. Since then, my understanding of justice and equality has been conditioned and deconditioned over time. I started reading books, magazines, academic papers, and watched documentaries to understand the contemporary political developments in India. It could not be possible without so many individuals whose emotional support and intellectual comradeship I must acknowledge here as a token of gratitude.
What triggered my interest in law: Witnessing the everyday struggles of common people acted as a strong springboard to motivate me to pursue law in a good institution. Getting into a top-tier law school like NLSIU and finding myself in a metropolitan city has so far been a tough journey, not to mention the years of anxiety my parents underwent to afford my preparations. I must acknowledge the contribution of my parents and my sister, who have continuously supported me in following my dream with their care and emotional refuge. After asking some people where to do law, I found out that there’s a 3-year LLB (Hons) programme at NLSIU. But it was still a daunting task for me as the entrance exams are English based papers – the quality of education and teaching methods used in local colleges often lack the standards to clear law entrance; I must thank a friend here who generously afforded my coaching for the entrance exam. After I secured admission into the programme, I was fortunate to connect with an NGO for financial support, and also received financial aid support from NLSIU. I am the first one in my family to reach such an institution so for my family and well-wishers, it was a very big moment.
What I look forward to: In comparison to other law schools and colleges, NLSIU is a vibrant place for discussions on law, politics and the State. There are lots of committees and societies to take part in. These are the first things I will explore. Besides this, most of the events related to human rights, academics, law and justice are hosted here frequently. These events were not happening in my previous place of study and therefore, I’m eager to join most of these events along with participating in other competitions. I have decided to write more articles, and opinion pieces with the mentorship from The Writing Centre at NLSIU.
Simerjit Kaur
Why I chose law: I am a dreamer. Rather, a day dreamer! Long ago, when I was a teenager, I thought of pursuing law. But the portrayal of lawyers in mainstream cinema had influenced me otherwise. Not having anyone to guide me, I pursued a more known path i.e. to be a Civil Servant. Having graduated with a B. Com degree and an M.A. in Economics, I had the opportunity to work in the banking sector for a few years. And those rigorous hours of study along with a job paid off eventually. I was selected to the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) in 1999. Joining the Civil Services was a game changer. I had the opportunity to work along the length and breadth of the country, serving the Defence Services as Accountant, Auditor and Financial Advisor. Having put almost 24 years of service in the Government of India, a sudden urge to be a student again and to learn the intricacies of law made me think about appearing for the law school admission test.
My journey so far: I call myself a lifelong learner. And I strongly believe that there is no age for learning anything new. You should just have the courage to believe in your dreams and keep moving. To satisfy my desire to pursue law, I appeared for the CUET PG 2024 and NLSAT 2024. I was even selected to pursue the 3-Year LLB course from Campus Law Centre, Delhi University. But destiny had other plans. Having been selected for the 3-Year LLB Hons programme at NLSIU, Bangalore, a big decision had to be made. With the support of my family, including my husband and children, my dream of pursuing an LLB course came true almost 35 years later. And that too from a top Law School!
What I look forward to: I am really looking forward to learning the different concepts of the law to enhance my professional skills. Currently, I am on study leave and I believe that skills I learn in this law school along with my work in the Government will help me add value, as well as give back, to the society through my work. I’m also looking for opportunities to collaborate with people.
Apart from studies, I am looking forward to participating in all extra-curricular activities on campus including Mooting. I have a zeal for fitness be it gym, running, or trekking in the Himalayas, and have undertaken a course in Advance Mountaineering. I hope to explore Bangalore and other nearby areas if time permits. I am open to new ideas, cultures, languages, food and friends. We only live once, so let’s make the most of it. Dream, believe and achieve, is my mantra for life.
Quote which inspired me during my journey: “You were born with wings, why prefer to crawl through life? – Jalal al-Din Muhammad (Rumi)
Dr. Jay Shah
My journey so far: I have had one of the most unconventional journeys so far for a law student. I am a MBBS Doctor by training and have worked as a clinician, a researcher and a teacher. It is during my second year of medical school, in the subject of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, that I studied the intersection of two of society’s oldest professions: Medicine and the Law. My long suppressed desire of pursuing law since 12th grade was rekindled and I decided to pursue a full legal training to further advance my goals of life. The primary option available was a 5-year integrated programme primarily for the high school students. NLSIU’s recently initiated 3-year LL.B. (Hons.) programme, a one-of-its-kind programme in the country, provided me a God-sent opportunity, which was unavailable for graduates like me till a few years ago.
Why I chose law: I believe that law intersects with all domains of the society, including politics, international affairs, culture, economics among others. To study law from the best institute in the country has been a long cherished dream for me since high school. For me, Gandhiji’s talisman serves as the polestar: The steps I take should be for the benefit of the weakest and the poorest, and an education in law is instrumental to achieve those ends. The idea of Justice deeply resonates with me on a personal level; from the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata to the modern day Constitution. I have also drawn inspiration from the motto of the University – ‘The Law protects those who protect it’ (one of the interpretations) – to be a public servant eventually who stands by the letter and spirit of the law. It would provide me with a holistic view as regards our everyday lives and interactions with each other.
What I look forward to: Perhaps as a cohort, the LL.B. batch is one of the most diverse and inclusive batches with graduates from all the academic disciplines of Science, Commerce and Humanities. It’s an incredible opportunity to collaborate with them, and learn from the perspectives which they bring to the table. I look forward to explore NLSIU in all its glory, from representing it at international fora, to forging deep bonds with colleagues across batches which hopefully will provide me a family away from home. Lastly, as I stand at the cusp of young adulthood and transition into being a responsible adult, I am hopeful that my journey at NLS will also be one of self-discovery and provide me clarity as regards to my purpose in life.
To people looking to pursue law after graduation: It is never too late to pursue your dreams which gives your life a sense of purpose. Given a chance, one must always strive to ‘Do what you love’, but if that isn’t feasible, you must bide your time and in the meanwhile, ‘Love what you are currently pursuing’. Have faith and patience, it’s a matter of time before your efforts bear fruit.
Apul Vaishnav
My journey so far: After completing my intermediary exam, I dedicated two months to preparing for CLAT 2022. However, during this time, I secured admission to the 5-year integrated dual degree management programme at IIM Indore, presenting me with a challenging decision. Ultimately, I chose to accept the admission at IIM Indore at the time and my experience there was truly transformative. I got to study courses in Humanities, Mathematics, Fine Arts, Computer Science, Linguistics, Economics, AI, Law, and other subjects which shaped my worldview. I also had the opportunity to study two courses in law at IIM-I, taught by professionals who were associated with NLSIU. These courses deeply resonated with me and ignited my love for the intricacies of law. During this time, I realized that my true passion lies in the field of law.
When I learned about the NLSAT examination, I made the firm decision to pursue this dream and dedicated six months to thorough preparation, while balancing both NLSAT prep and my courses at IIM Indore. Following the three years of study, I secured my Bachelor of Arts in Foundations of Management (BAFM) degree from IIM Indore. I subsequently joined NLSIU, choosing to pursue my passion in law over pursuing an MBA (the last two years of the integrated programme) from IIM-I.
Why I chose law: In my 12th grade, I pursued science, but my passion for Social Sciences has been ingrained in me, right from childhood. It was during my intermediate studies that I became interested in contemporary social issues that concern our society. Around the same time, I also came across the novel “To Kill a Mocking bird” by Harper Lee and found myself deeply inspired by the character of Atticus Finch. This is when I felt pursuing law could provide me with a valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the world around me and I could truly live to my potential by immersing myself in this field. What truly ignited my interest in attending Law School was the process of preparation. I have always had a strong affinity for General Knowledge and English Comprehension since childhood, and these subjects brought me immense joy. They were integral to my preparation for CLAT and solidified my decision to pursue law.
What I look forward to: The first 10 days at NLSIU, Bangalore have been incredible. I have witnessed cultural events, orientation sessions, sporting events, and committee and collective fairs. Being able to attend classes at NLSIU has been a dream come true. Meeting and listening to the stories of people from all over the country has been an amazing experience. I am hoping that the coming three years bring a lot of new teachings and experiences for me, and that I truly live up to my expectations. I am really looking forward to the next three years. For me, it’s all about embracing life here with immense joy and excitement and pursuing my passion for studying law. My focus on my future goals is now clearer than ever, and I am incredibly grateful to NLSIU for providing me with this opportunity. Let the journey begin!
Something I am excited about: Attending the convocation ceremony and having the opportunity to meet the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India is an event that I am eagerly anticipating. Alongside my academic pursuits, I am especially enthusiastic about engaging in extracurricular activities, particularly quizzing.
Quote which inspired me during my journey: “One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful” – Sigmund Freud
Vamsi Krishna P V S
On choosing law: While I did have a judge thatha (grandfather) influence me while growing up, my interest in the law rose from a spate of extremely consequential Supreme Court decisions during my undergrad years. I absolutely loved reading about the implications – both pros and cons, and that desire to know more never went away. I’m so glad I’ve taken the plunge now, the first few classes themselves have been super interesting here at NLS!
My personal journey so far: As someone who’s been on a robotic path of least resistance so far (Engineering + B-School), it was hard not to notice the blind spots in my understanding of societal issues and inclusive growth. Even during my three years of corporate life, the long arm of the law and its impact were apparent. NLS is an attempt to make my understanding of life more meaningful, and hopefully, to celebrate nuances even more.
What I look forward to: I can’t wait to make amazing friends and mentors. I would also love to take jabs at quizzing and debating, my very dear, and long forlorn, hobbies!