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NUJS Kolkata to Host Panel on India's Engagement with Experts on
The at the , Kolkata, is set to convene a timely and significant panel discussion on India’s approach to . Titled “How Can India Engage With In A Manner That Is Principled, Evidence-Based, Constitutionally Sound And Sensitive To Diplomatic Realities?”, the online event will take place on at 12:00 PM. The session is free to attend, though it will not be recorded, making live participation essential for legal professionals and scholars keen to follow the evolving discourse on India’s role in global accountability mechanisms.
This discussion arrives at a critical juncture when international criminal law faces renewed scrutiny from the . India has long maintained a cautious, often ambivalent, posture toward institutions like the and other transnational justice frameworks. The panel seeks to move beyond binary debates of ratification versus non-ratification, instead exploring how India can constructively engage with in a manner that respects its constitutional values, diplomatic imperatives, and . With a roster of distinguished experts, the event promises to offer nuanced perspectives on a topic of growing importance for India’s foreign policy and legal community.
A Distinguished Lineup of Experts
The panel will be moderated by Prof. Atul Alexander, a respected academic at NUJS known for his work on public international law and human rights. Under his guidance, the discussion is expected to maintain a rigorous, scholarly tone while remaining accessible to a broad audience of legal practitioners, students, and policymakers.
The speakers bring diverse expertise:
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Prof. Srinivas Burra is Professor of Law at , New Delhi, where he specializes in international law, including the and . His scholarship often examines the intersection of international legal norms with domestic constitutional frameworks, making him an ideal voice to address the of India’s engagement.
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Rohit Gupta , a legal officer, researcher, and NUJS alumnus, focuses on public international law. His practical experience in legal research and policy advocacy provides a bridge between academic theory and real-world application, particularly in the context of India’s legislative capacity to prosecute international crimes.
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Aakash Chandran , a legal professional and researcher at the , brings a regional perspective. The works on advancing accountability for international crimes in Asia, and Chandran’s insights will be crucial for exploring —an often-overlooked dimension in discussions dominated by European and African precedents.
Key Themes: Perspectives, , and Victim-Centered Accountability
The panel will address three core themes that together form a comprehensive framework for India’s engagement.
Legal Foundations of from a Perspective – This segment will critically examine the historical development of international criminal law, often criticized for its selective application against weaker states. Speakers will explore how India, as a leading voice of the , can help reshape these foundations to reflect principles of equality and non-discrimination. Prof. Burra’s expertise will be particularly relevant here, as his research often interrogates the power dynamics inherent in international legal institutions.
India’s Domestic Capacity Regarding and – A pressing question for Indian policymakers is whether the country’s existing legal framework can adequately address crimes that occur beyond its territorial jurisdiction—such as piracy, crimes on the high seas, and committed by Indian nationals abroad. Rohit Gupta’s background in public international law will likely inform a discussion on the gaps in India’s domestic legislation, including the absence of a comprehensive law on or . This theme also touches on the constitutional division of powers between the Union and states, a uniquely Indian complexity.
to Accountability in Asia – Aakash Chandran’s work with the focuses on building accountability mechanisms that prioritize the rights and needs of victims, rather than solely state interests. The panel will explore how India can support or participate in regional initiatives—such as or —that offer alternative routes to justice without requiring full adherence to the . This theme is especially relevant for addressing atrocities in neighboring countries where victims lack access to domestic remedies.
Significance for the Legal Community
For legal professionals in India, this panel offers more than an academic exercise. The questions it poses have direct implications for litigation, policy advocacy, and legislative reform. International criminal law is increasingly intersecting with domestic practice—whether through extradition cases, mutual legal assistance requests, or prosecutions under the . Understanding India’s is essential for lawyers advising clients on cross-border crimes, human rights violations, or corporate liability for .
Moreover, the discussion aligns with ongoing global debates about the role of emerging powers in shaping international norms. India’s absence from the ICC has not insulated it from scrutiny; instead, it has prompted calls for alternative . By engaging with these issues, the panel will equip attendees with the analytical tools to assess India’s options and contribute to informed public discourse.
Practical Details and Registration
The event will be held online on from 12:00 PM . Registration is free, but participants are advised to register early as slots may be limited. The session will not be recorded , so live attendance is the only opportunity to hear from the speakers directly. This policy underscores the value of active engagement—attendees are encouraged to prepare questions and participate in the Q&A segment.
The event is open to all external attendees, including students, scholars, and legal professionals. The ILSA Society at NUJS has a tradition of fostering scholarly dialogue on contemporary international law issues, and this panel continues that legacy. Given the expertise of the panelists and the timeliness of the topic, the discussion is likely to generate valuable insights for anyone interested in India’s role in the global justice system.
Conclusion
As the international legal order undergoes significant transformation, India’s approach to remains a subject of intense debate. The NUJS panel offers a rare opportunity to hear from leading experts who can articulate a path forward that is both principled and pragmatic. For legal professionals, attending this session is not merely an academic exercise—it is a chance to engage with the cutting edge of legal thought on accountability, sovereignty, and human rights. With free registration and an expert lineup, this event is not to be missed.
