Students from various committees at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU) in Lucknow have issued a warning of potential mass resignations set for June 12. The ultimatum comes amid their dissatisfaction with recent committee restructuring decisions for the 2026-27 academic session.
Concerns Over Structural Changes
Three committees have come together to express their grievances through a joint representation addressed to the Vice-Chancellor (VC). They argue that the restructuring has significantly diminished their capacity to fulfill their responsibilities. The joint representation highlights that previous individual committee efforts to raise these concerns with the VC have not elicited any substantial response.
Leadership Role Dispute
The core of the dispute centers on structural changes allegedly excluding fifth-year students from leadership roles within the committees. Initially, the administration, on April 26, proposed a new framework involving Joint Conveners from the fourth year and Mentors from the fifth year. However, a May 27 notice limited applications solely to third and fourth-year students, omitting any reference to mentorship roles.
The students’ representation underscores that the assurance of mentorship roles was a key consideration in accepting the structural changes. Despite repeated guarantees, such positions have not been implemented.
Deviation from Committee Constitutions
A review of the official committee constitutions, as published on RMLNLU’s website, reveals discrepancies. The constitutions of the Moot Court Committee and the Internship and Placement Committee clearly stipulate the inclusion of two Joint Conveners from the fifth year. Contrary to this, a June 4 notice, approved by the VC and signed by Prof. Manish Singh, appointed fourth-year students to these positions.
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The Cultural Committee’s Treasurer position has also been filled by a third-year student, despite constitutional requirements for a fourth-year appointee.
Timing and Consultation Concerns
The representation points out that the notification for committee leadership applications was issued during exam periods. This, coupled with the timing of appointment announcements, meant that a significant portion of the student body was absent, limiting effective consultation and feedback.
The Debate and Discussion Committee, previously operating with two Joint Conveners and five Secretaries, has been reduced to one Convener and two Secretaries. Similarly, the Legal Aid Committee, according to students, traditionally comprises two Joint Conveners from the fifth year.
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Professional Implications
Students at RMLNLU stress the professional importance of committee positions. Unlike some peer institutions, RMLNLU does not offer comparable institutional placements, making committee leadership experience vital for internships, recruitment, and higher education applications.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the Cultural Committee appointments, where two Secretary roles and the Treasurer position were filled by individuals without prior committee involvement.
Bar & Bench reached out to Prof. Manish Singh and the VC for comments on these issues, but no response was available at the time of publication.
