Meet Our New LLM Students | AY 2023-24

Hifza Haq

Your background  and journey so far: 

I hail from Uttarakhand. I completed my undergraduate studies at Rajiv Gandhi National Law University in Punjab in 2022, specializing in criminal law. Graduating during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic left me uncertain about the specific realm of law that I wished to explore. Seeking clarity and direction, I embarked on a transformative journey by enrolling in the Young India Fellowship at Ashoka University. This prestigious year-long program in Liberal Sciences/Studies provided me invaluable exposure to a wide range of disciplines, research opportunities, and practical experiences. As I connected these diverse areas of study to the field of law, it became evident that my true passion lies in the intersection of Gender and the law.

Motivated by this newfound clarity, I decided to pursue further education at the National Law School. The opportunity to engage with renowned scholars and the comprehensive curriculum at NLS drew me towards this institution, as it offers the ideal platform to deepen my understanding of the complex relationship between gender and the legal system.

On pursuing law and your areas of interest:

Following a comprehensive exploration of various subjects, I came to a resolute decision to pursue a career in academia. Throughout this process, my focus gradually narrowed down to two specific areas of interest: gender and the law, and intellectual property law. These fields captivated my intellectual curiosity, inspiring me to delve deeper into related research topics.

As my academic journey progressed, I began to develop a particular interest in the intersection of climate change and gender, as well as the legal implications of artificial intelligence (AI). These emerging fields present unique challenges and opportunities that have significant societal and legal implications. By directing my research towards these areas, I aim to contribute to the broader understanding of these complex issues and explore innovative solutions.

What do you look forward to at NLS:

NLS has always held an esteemed reputation as the top-ranked college, appearing almost unattainable. Now that I have the opportunity to be here, my intention is to immerse myself further in my areas of research. The faculty at NLS is renowned as experts in their respective fields, and I am eager to learn from their wealth of knowledge. During my time here, my primary goal is to absorb as much as possible, enhancing my research capabilities and honing my writing skills. This invaluable year at NLS presents a unique chance for personal and intellectual growth, and I am committed to making the most of this exceptional opportunity.

Interests & hobbies: 

During my leisure hours, I often find solace in the simple pleasure of savoring a cup of chai while indulging in the joy of reading. It is a tranquil and immersive experience that allows me to explore different literary worlds and expand my knowledge. Additionally, I possess a deep appreciation for history and enjoy visiting historical monuments, immersing myself in the rich narratives and captivating stories that these places hold. By delving into the past and understanding the historical context of these monuments, I gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage they represent.

Kishor

Background:

I belong to a small village in Bidar district of Karnataka named Mudhol (K). It’s a small village with less facilities where I completed my 10 years of schooling. Later, I moved to Hyderabad for my higher studies and completed my class 12 in the field of commerce and humanities at New Era Junior College, Hyderabad. With an interest to study law, I pursued my undergraduate degree from the Mahatma Gandhi Law College (affiliated to Osmania University).

On pursuing law and areas of interest: 

During my schooling, I was always interested in social activities that attracted me to a career in law. I could say I am probably the first person from my village to pursue a law degree. My primary interests are business and commercial laws and I want to work further in this direction in my professional journey. I believe that specialization is crucial for this.

What do you look forward to at NLS:

NLSIU was a dream college for me because of its reputation as one of the top law schools in India. The university has an excellent faculty, a strong alumni network and a rigorous academic program that prepares students for successful careers in law. I look forward to academic discourse and activities and more importantly, focus on interaction with the NLS faculty.

Interests and hobbies: 

In my spare time, I follow sports and I love watching web series.

Aditi Singh

Background and developing interest in law:

I am from Delhi and I belong to a family of lawyers. From a very young age, I was exposed to various institutions where law is practiced. Consequently, this helped developed my interest in law, whether it was through visits to Courts in Delhi with my parents, or the exposure I gained through my mother who currently serves in the Ministry of Law and Justice, GoI. Therefore, I was very determined to take up law as a career since the very beginning. I did my LLB from Campus Law Center, Delhi University, which was a great opportunity for me to begin my law journey.

On pursuing LLM and areas of interest:

After my UG, I was very interested in continuing with my higher studies so I thought of pursuing an LLM degree. In litigation, a postgraduate degree helps a lot in the long run. It will help me develop my knowledge and build on my strengths further. An LLM at NLSIU would help enhance skills to undertake research as well, so it is the best option I could have thought of. My goal is to become a litigator in the future and work in civil matters; and to also teach law in a part-time capacity.

On dreams coming true:

When I considered my options for pursuing an LLM, the only institution that came to my mind was NLSIU. There could not have been a better programme for me. It was my dream college to pursue studies since the very beginning. It’s an immense pleasure to be studying here.

Interests & hobbies:

I have done internships at the Parliament, NGO’s and law firms and am looking forward to different experiences ahead. I also like to paint and love watching movies during my free time.

Suraj T

Your background  and journey so far:

I am from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. I think my decision to pursue law was a bit hasty, but one that I certainly do not regret. I did my B. Com LLB from the Faculty of Law, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai. SRM gave me the liberty to pursue the various opportunities that law has to offer a student. The journey has been great so far. It has strengthened me as an individual and as someone from a legal background.

On pursuing law and your areas of interest:

Pursuing law has made me aware of society and the complexities arising from it. It has been a very enriching experience that I think has helped me tap into my potential very well. I am very passionate about constitutional and administrative laws, and have an inclination towards competition law as well. I am also very interested in the regulation of Artificial Intelligence and other allied areas, and have an affinity towards entrepreneurship.

What do you look forward to at NLS:

One of the major reasons why I joined NLSIU was to challenge myself and to see how I would perform against such high academic standards. So, I am looking forward to the rigorous curriculum. I am also looking forward to meeting people from different parts of the country and having a taste of the vibrant campus life.

Interests & hobbies:

I am a huge football fan. I make it a point to watch almost every match that my favourite team features in, irrespective of the timing. Just like many others, I am also a cricket fan. I also enjoy reading novels, especially of the thriller and crime genre.

Sharona Mann

Your Background/Journey so far:

I hail from Punjab but I have lived and studied in Delhi. I completed by B.A.LL.B (Hons.) from Amity Law School Delhi, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University. Thereafter, I worked as a Research Fellow at the Centre for Trade and Investment Law, where I was involved in India’s free trade agreement negotiations with United Kingdom, Canada, European Union, and Australia.

On pursuing law and your areas of interest:

I was always fascinated in learning how law interacts with, and shapes the individual, society and polity. This propelled me to choose law as a career option. After my stint as a researcher, I decided to pursue an LL.M at NLS which is known for its academic rigour and research-oriented course structure.

What do you look forward to at NLS:

I look forward to learning from the brightest minds during my time here. I wish to forge new friendships and create wonderful memories as I become a student again.

Interests & hobbies: I am a nature enthusiast who enjoys travelling and reading fiction. I especially love the adrenaline rush of debating.

Keerthana Manigandan

Background/Journey so far: 

I recently graduated with an undergraduate law degree from the National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi. While my family’s roots are from Tamil Nadu, we have been in Bengaluru for the past 17 years.

On pursuing law and areas of interest:

From a very young age, I was fascinated by law related articles that were featured in newspapers and the recent legal developments would be a topic I would avidly speak about with my parents at the dinner table. This is why I had very early on decided to pursue my degree in law with no ‘Plan B’ whatsoever.

My areas of interest that I have discovered over the years include wildlife and animal protection related laws, criminal law and forensic evidence law in particular. In my very first internship I had interned with a wildlife rescue centre based out of Bengaluru, and this has been my most cherished internship till date.

What I look forward to at NLS:

Even though I knew I wanted to always do law, I had no idea of what exactly I wanted to become! I thought I would definitely figure it out by the time I was in my final year of law school during my LLB, but I didn’t fully manage to do that. So, during my one year of LLM here, I hope to find out what exactly I want to focus on while studying law at the country’s best law school. The curriculum, especially of electives and the methods that are employed to teach, are extremely intriguing and engaging and I’m thoroughly enjoying the process of learning here.

Interests and hobbies:

I have been swimming since I was four years old and thoroughly enjoyed the rigorous training I underwent till my late teens for competitive swimming, in addition to the sport itself. Another sport I really enjoy is water polo and I have had the chance to represent the Karnataka Women’s water polo team. My other interests include reading and playing throwball.

Anakha Angeline Anilesh

Your background/journey so far:

I was born in Coimbatore and raised in Bengaluru. My paternal family is from Kerala and my maternal family are Anglo-Indians with roots from Spain. Due to my culturally diverse background, my childhood was spent learning and adapting to different cultures and traditions. I also speak six languages. I am a gold medallist and a rank student of the BA LLB programme from University Law College, Bangalore University. I always have had an inclination and fascination towards humanities and enjoy learning about the law. Since I have been in the Bangalore University campus for over five years, I would go past NLSIU and often made a promise to myself to be a part of NLS in some capacity and this opportunity is a dream come true!

On pursuing law and your areas of interest: 

I have always been drawn to study of the law in depth. During my undergraduate course, I explored various academic and co-circular activities such as internships, moots, MUNs, legal aid clinic, and working on research papers. I have enjoyed mooting rigorously at both international and national levels and have been a vice-president of the Moot Court Society at ULC. I was the merits counsel at the Willem C. Vis East International Commercial Arbitration Moot in 2021, wherein our team had qualified for the round of 32 out of 147 teams, and won the Eric Bergsten award as the 16th best oralist.

I briefly worked as an in-house legal counsel with a tech start-up which later helped me identify that my specific areas of interest are commercial contracts, Intellectual Property and Alternative Dispute Resolution.

What do you look forward to at NLS:  

I look forward to enriching my knowledge and gaining a more practical approach to the legal profession. I hope to develop strong bonds with like-minded people and to also engage in discussions, debates, and deliberations. I look forward to my tenure in the student council this academic year. And I would like to spend more time enjoying the simple pleasures of being a student.

Your interests and hobbies: 

I enjoy a great conversation, a thriller movie/ series, and soul-soothing music, and I love travelling.