In Exclusive Conversation with Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha, Director of The Indian Law Institute (ILI)
Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha is the Director of the Indian Law Institute. He did his Doctorate in International Law from Jawaharlal Nehru University, LL.M. from the University of Nottingham and LL.B from the University of Delhi. His areas of specializations are Human Rights, Constitutional Law, International Humanitarian and Refugee Law, International Criminal Law, International Law and International… Read More »
Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha is the Director of the Indian Law Institute. He did his Doctorate in International Law from Jawaharlal Nehru University, LL.M. from the University of Nottingham and LL.B from the University of Delhi. His areas of specializations are Human Rights, Constitutional Law, International Humanitarian and Refugee Law, International Criminal Law, International Law and International Institutions.
He has published extensively in the field of international law, international relations, constitutional law, international human rights, humanitarian and refugee laws, in reputed National and International Law journals. He is serving as a member of editorial boards of various reputed national and international journals.
He was offered a prestigious visiting Professorship at the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Sweden, for (2004-2005). Prior to joining the Indian Law Institute, he was teaching at the WB NUJS as a Professor of Law (currently on leave).
His recent authored, edited and co-edited books include Business and Human Rights (2013); International Criminal Law and Human Rights (2010); International Law: Issues and Challenges (2009); International Criminal Law: Issues and Challenges; (2009); Global Governance, Human Rights and Development (2009).
Here are the excerpts of the Exclusive Conversation with Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha.
Legal Bites: Sir, how far do you think India has come in terms of gender equality and women’s rights? What is your comment on pro-liberalism?
Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha: It’s difficult to assess but we have made significant progress and that is reflected through the legislative process, judicial decisions and academic activities. We see a sensitization by all stakeholders, but still, we have to go a long way to achieve complete gender justice. Liberalism is a must but there is a limitation to everything. I personally believe the current generation is smart and well informed of their rights and duties. Too much interference by the state is going to antagonize so a balance needs to be established.
Legal Bites: Sir, trying minors as adults in serious cases like murder and rape, how effective do you think this law will be in the long run?
Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha: Everyone has different takes over this Juvenile justice act, it’s really difficult to assure whether it is the only way to handle this particular situation or whether we have to go more on the rehabilitative approach.
For me it has to be a reformative approach because they have a long way to go, they are the foundation of society, there has been a lot of application of mind over this law. It’s only the time which will say whether this law will serve its purpose. Upliftment of children, better education, and better environment will be more effective than simply putting law.
Legal Bites: Sir, should there be an age limit for studying law? What are your views on Rule 28 of BCI’s Legal Education Rules?
Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha: I believe that there is no need for any restriction.
Legal Bites: Sir, what are your views on Uniform Civil Code.
Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha: In my personal view I think this is a very sentimental and emotional issue and thus effective involvement of society is a must. Here we just cannot call 5 people to represent society, although it’s a directive principle of the state, I believe that in this regard state need to make true efforts, and avoid venturing.
Legal Bites: What are the suggestions you will like to give to our young readers?
Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha: There is a sufficient scope to apply their knowledge and understanding for the betterment of society. Law students have a big responsibility and I urge them all to serve society. A law student must study fundamental courses very seriously, think more analytically and try to be brief, focused and disciplined.
Legal Bites – Thank you so much, sir, for your time and cooperation.
-
- Mayank Shekhar in conversation with the ILI Director
