Background
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) petition has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking directions to introduce a 3-year law degree course after the 12th standard. Currently, students can only pursue a 5-year LL.B course after their 12th standard, while the 3-year law degree course is available only for graduates.
Key Points
- The petitioner argues that the 5-year duration for the LL.B course is unreasonable and irrational.
- A 3-year course would allow students to study 15-20 subjects in 6 semesters, compared to the 10 semesters required for the 5-year course.
- The petitioner highlights that shortening the duration would enable students to gain 2 additional years of court practice experience.
- Examples of legal luminaries like Ram Jethmalani and Fali S Nariman starting their law practice or completing their degree at a young age are cited to support the plea.
Impact
- Shortening the duration of the law degree course could reduce the financial burden on students and enable them to start their professional careers earlier.
Legal Analysis
- The petitioner argues that the current 5-year duration violates Articles 14 (Right to Equality) and 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) of the Constitution, as it is arbitrary and irrational.
- Comparisons are drawn with other Bachelor’s degree courses like Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce, and Bachelor of Science, which are completed in 3 years after the 12th standard.
Conclusion
The petitioner requests an early decision from the Court, as admissions for new courses typically start in May-June. The petition raises important questions about the duration of legal education and its impact on students’ professional development.
SOURCE – DECCAN HERALD
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