Chotanagpur law college on 14th December, 2024, organised two lecture series on the topics “75 Years Journey of Constitution of India: Achievement, Failures, Challenges and Solutions” and “Revisiting the legal perspective of the Bhartiya knowledge system: Retrospect and Prospect” as a part of BARRISTER S.K. SAHAY LECTURE SERIES. Prof. (Dr.) Shailendra Kumar Gupta, Professor of Law, Banaras Hindu University was the key note speaker. The programme started by singing with the National Anthem led by Dr. Nandita Adhikari. Prof (Dr.) Pankaj Kumar Chaturvedi, Principal Cum Dean, Faculty of Law, Ranchi University felicitated the guest. The programme was hosted by Dr. Sakshi Pathak, IQAC Co-ordinator, gave the welcome address, while Dr. Lalsa Mohini welcomed the guest.
Professor (Dr.) Shailendra Kumar Gupta, a distinguished Professor of Law at the Law School, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Faculty of Law, Varanasi, delivered an insightful lecture on the theme “75 Years of the Constitution of India: Achievements, Failures, Challenges and Solutions”
During his address, Professor Gupta highlighted the evolving nature of the Indian Constitution, describing it as a dynamic and living document that has shaped India’s political and social landscape over the past 75 years. He pointed out that the Constitution has become a focal point of political discourse, with references to it playing a significant role in modern electoral narratives. As an example, he cited the tagline of a recent general election that alluded to constitutional change, illustrating the profound impact of this document on the country’s political framework.
While celebrating the Constitution’s achievements, Professor Gupta urged the audience not to view these milestones as the culmination of its journey. Instead, he emphasized the need to address contemporary challenges, such as ensuring transparency in the functioning of constitutional machinery and effectively interpreting the ideals of the Preamble in the current socio-political context. He also proposed spreading awareness about constitutional values as a critical solution to these challenges.
Professor Gupta then transitioned to discussing the broader topic of “Revisiting the legal perspective of the Bhartiya knowledge system: Retrospect and Prospect”. He began by introducing the ancient Indian concept of “walking the path” and its relevance to the day-to-day application of laws. He stressed that purity of heart and intent must complement the limitations inherent in legal frameworks, rooting his observations in the philosophical depth of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS).
Elaborating further, Professor Gupta illustrated how words within the Indian Knowledge System often carry multiple meanings—literal, interpretative, and constructive—each offering unique insights. He critiqued the misinterpretation of IKS concepts by individuals lacking a nuanced understanding of the subject, leading to a devaluation of its essence. He explained that, in the Indian tradition, true knowledge is defined as that which liberates individuals from the cycle of sorrow and happiness, emphasizing the transformative potential of education in shaping a just and equitable society.
The lecture was an engaging blend of constitutional analysis and philosophical exploration, leaving the audience with a deeper appreciation of the interplay between law, politics, and traditional Indian wisdom.