Research

1. Bharitya Nayashastra  

In ancient India, there was tremendous development in mathematics, astronomy, medicine, grammar, philosophy, literature, etc., and law. This is evident from the many legal treatises written in ancient India (all in Sanskrit). The Bhartiya law emanated from books called the Smritis, e.g., Manusmriti, Yajnavalkya Smiriti and the Smritis of Vishnu, Narad, Parashar, Apastamba, Vashisht, Gautam, etc. and Mitakashara by Vijnaneshwar.  The study of ancient Indian jurisprudence encompasses various legal and philosophical concepts that have evolved over thousands of years. Studying ancient Indian jurisprudence provides valuable insights into the legal history of India and the broader history of legal thought and systems. Studying ancient Indian jurisprudence requires a combination of methods, including textual analysis, historical research, archaeology, and ethnography. India has a rich tradition of legal pluralism, with diverse legal systems coexisting and interacting within the same society. Research on ancient legal systems sheds light on the plurality of legal norms, authorities, and forums for dispute resolution in ancient India. Research on Bharitya Nayashastra is important for enriching our understanding of India’s legal heritage, cultural traditions, and societal norms, as well as for informing contemporary legal scholarship, policy-making, and practice.

Focus areas:

• Study of Dharma and Dharma shastras.
  • Issues related to transitioning from dharma to law or from law to dharma. 
• Critical and in-depth study of ancient textsto identify similarities and differences in law and justice.
  • Philosophical foundations of Justice, Rights, and the state’s role in enforcing laws.
  • The impact of customs and traditions influenced legal practices and how they were codified in various texts.
• Evolution of legal education and the development of jurisprudential thought in ancient India and its influence on modern Indian law and legal system.

2. Constitution and constitutionalism 

Constitution and constitutionalism revolve around the adherence to constitutional principles and the rule of law. Constitutionalism is a collection of expectations about government conduct,while the constitution is a political-legal construct. It emphasises that a constitution should limit governments, and their actions should conform to the principles and rules outlined in that constitution. Constitutionalism is a critical concept in democratic societies, as it ensures that the government is accountable, respects the rights of citizens, and operates within the bounds set by the Constitution. Studying constitution and constitutionalism helps examine the structures, processes, and policies that shape how governments function and interact with society. 

Focus areas:

• The role of constitutions in addressing contemporary challenges.
• The process of constitutional reform and its impact on legal profession, studies and research.
• Judicial independence and its impact on law and legal systems.
• Comparative studies on different models of federalism and decentralised legal system and processes. 
• Examine the framework and complexity of accountability and transparency, rule of law and Constitutionalism. 

3. AI, Cyber Security, Air and Space laws and policies 

Research in India’s cybersecurity and information technology field is essential to address the growing challenges in the digital realm and develop solutions that protect individuals, organisations, and the nation’s critical infrastructure. India needs a dedicated cybersecurity law. In response to the rapidly shifting digital transformation, archaic cybersecurity laws, and the lack of clear, comprehensive data privacy laws, the Indian government has reevaluated how it regulates cybersecurity and cybercrime. However, there is a need for an integrated and comprehensive legal system to tackle the complex problem of cybersecurity and policies to enable information technology to ensure safe and secure access to all. 

Space and air law in India encompasses legal frameworks and regulations that govern activities related to outer space and aviation within the country. These legal systems are essential for ensuring the safe, environmentally friendly, peaceful, and regulated use of airspace and for compliance with international agreements and conventions.

Focus areas: 

• Comprehensive analysis of existing laws associated with cybersecurity and cybercrimes in India and across the globe. 
• Data Protection and Privacy
• Leveraging AI for legal research
  • Natural language processing (NLP) for legal documents
  • Predictive analytics for case outcomes
• Cybersecurity Awareness and Training (capacity building) 
• Cyber Law and Jurisprudence
• Liability and infringement, Intellectual property ownership and rights, product liability
• National and international space and air policies and legislations. 
• Commercial space activities and regulations. 
• Civilian/commercial aviation, drone regulations, security and environmental regulations and policies. 
• Development of law for the peaceful use of outer space
• Facilitate the growth of the commercial space industry.
• Train next-generation space lawyers.

4. Business and corporate law 

Business and corporate law is dynamic and subject to changes in legislation and industry practices. The research and knowledge in this domain aids companies navigate complex regulatory landscapes and ensure legal compliance in all operations. Business and corporate law covers various topics, exploring legal principles, regulatory frameworks, and practical implications for businesses. Researchers in this field contribute to understanding complex legal issues that impact corporations, entrepreneurs, investors, and other stakeholders. Research in these areas can contribute to the development of legal knowledge, policy reforms, and best practices that promote corporate accountability, investor protection, economic growth, and sustainable business practices.

Focus areas: 

• Legal implications of emerging technologies (e.g., blockchain, AI, IoT) Banking and Finance  Compliance & investigations  Insolvency and bankruptcy  International trade law  Antitrust and competition laws   Mergers and accusations  ESG Disclosures & Reporting: Practices & Regulatory Framework Legal Framework & Impact of CSR Programmes Risks & Challenges associated with Private Equity and Venture Capital Investments Harmonization of Corporate Laws in a Global Context.