Exploring the ancient roots of Bharatiya jurisprudence and its contemporary relevance.

The School of Law, Governance, and Public Policy at Chanakya University convened the inaugural roundtable on ‘Bharatiya Nyaya Shastra’ on January 20, 2024. Scholars and professionals from a wide array of backgrounds, spanning the legal profession, education, research, and Shastric traditions, actively participated in the program. The roundtable delved into the ancient roots of Indian jurisprudence, recognizing its deep integration with the subcontinent’s cultural, social, and philosophical fabric. 

Ancient Indian Jurisprudence, as expounded in various legal and philosophical texts, tackled fundamental issues and themes that shaped legal thought during that era while exploring its contemporary relevance. The governance and jurisprudence system of ancient India, encompassing public administration, Justice, and social order, were noted for their comprehensive nature. It operated on a blend of legal, ethical, and religious principles, aiming at upholding order, justice, and righteousness within society. 

The interdisciplinary approach adopted during the roundtable aimed to foster a holistic understanding of India’s cultural, historical, and philosophical dimensions of law and justice. By engaging scholars from diverse fields and traditions, the event sought to shed light on the intricate interplay between ancient Indian thought and contemporary legal discourse. Through such endeavors, the roundtable aspired to contribute to a nuanced comprehension of Bharatiya Nyaya Shastra, paving the way for informed discussions and advancements in law and governance. 

The deliberation of the round table led to the identification of 4 domains: Dharma & Justice, Interpretation of texts in the Indic Tradition, Indianization of Courts, and Social Context and Jurisprudence for further research.