The event commenced with the first round (written exam) of the quiz which consisted of questions from various spectrums and domains of the field of law. This was followed by a talk by Mr. Stephen G Barnes, Associate Dean of PennState Law. Mr. Barnes mentioned about the scholarships at the PennState Law for the interested candidates and listed out the major reasons for studying the constitution. He enunciated that a proper comprehension of the constitution is the foundation of legal system and building analytical skills as well as enabling international understanding. Subsequently, the lecture by Dr. Arun Mohan, Senior Advocate of Supreme Court, focused on the practical issues and gave suggestions to the young participants. The salient features of his address were development of Emotional Quotient (EQ), proper social skills, first principles of thinking (self-learning), constant enrichment of language skills and computer know-how, multi-disciplinary approach as well as learning fundamentals of judicial process. He also stated that good quality laws and justice delivery system can bring 2% rise in GDP of India.
This led to the second session of the event which started with the final round (oral round) of the quiz that witnessed the qualification of six teams named as- Jurist, Orator, Professor, Economist, Lawyer, Diplomats. The names of these teams are an ode to the Hon’ble Nani Palkhivala who played all these roles with utmost dignity and professionalism in his lifetime.
The atmosphere was vibrant and rife with intelligent interventions from the to-be legal eagles.
‘Team Professors’ was declared as the winning team in the quiz which was conducted by Mr. Sanjay Hegde, Senior advocate, Supreme Court who added fervour and humour to the event as the Quiz Master for the oral round.
"Dissent and ability to listen to contrary opinions are the essential elements of a functioning democracy" said Mr. Soli Sorabjee, the legendary lawyer and constitutionalist at the Valedictory Session. Dr. Subhash. C. Kashyap, a contemporary of Mr. Sorabjee and as eminent, commented upon the tremendous constitutional illiteracy that existed in India and proceeded to give a few instances. He also emphasised that the study of constitution should be made compulsory in the curriculum – not only for political science or law course students but as a foundation course at the senior secondary level in schools. Chief Guest, former Supreme Court Justice A. K. Sikri, while agreeing with Mr. Sorabjee, stressed further on the inviolability of the Indian Constitutional provisions without due process.
The event proved to be an insightful and engaging experience whilst inspiring young minds to learn more!