In a recent development, Advocate Rahul Tiwari has unveiled the arbitrary eligibility criteria set by two prominent law colleges in Uttar Pradesh for faculty positions. The job advertisements explicitly stated that only candidates possessing a “2-year LLM” degree would be considered eligible for teaching roles. Advocate Rahul Tiwari, being deeply concerned about this issue, filed a Right to Information (RTI) request to investigate further. The aim was to gain clarity on the Bar Council of India (BCI) Rules of Legal Education, particularly the provision that deems one-year LLM degree holders ineligible for teaching positions.
According to the response received through the RTI request, the law colleges’ eligibility criteria contradicted the existing rules established by the BCI. Rule 20 of Schedule 3, Part 4, of the Rules of Legal Education specifies that individuals holding a degree from a college recognized by the University Grants Commission or similar standard-setting bodies are eligible for teaching positions. The BCI’s 2016 notification, which rendered one-year LLM degree holders ineligible for teaching posts, is currently ineffective and not applicable.
Advocate Rahul Tiwari’s efforts through the RTI request have shed light on the flawed implementation of the eligibility criteria and its inconsistency with the BCI rules. This revelation serves as a reminder to educational institutions and governing bodies to ensure compliance with established regulations and refrain from imposing arbitrary requirements.
The BCI plays a crucial role in maintaining the standards of legal education across India. By clarifying the eligibility criteria for teaching positions, the BCI contributes to the overall quality of legal education and the professional development of law graduates. It is imperative for law colleges and universities to align their recruitment processes with the rules and regulations outlined by the BCI, guaranteeing a fair and transparent selection process.
This RTI revelation may have far-reaching implications, not only for the two law colleges in Uttar Pradesh but also for other educational institutions that may have similar eligibility criteria in place. It is expected that these colleges will review and amend their recruitment policies accordingly, ensuring that candidates with the appropriate qualifications are provided equal opportunities to pursue teaching careers.
Advocate Rahul Tiwari’s RTI filing sets a commendable example of an individual’s commitment to upholding the integrity and fairness of the educational system. Such actions contribute to the continuous improvement of legal education in India and support the pursuit of excellence in the legal profession.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this news article is based on the RTI response received by Advocate Rahul Tiwari. The views and opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of the law colleges, BCI, Lexpeeps or any other relevant authorities.
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Jayseeka Virdi ( News Stories Editor ) and Madhur Rathaur