The Allahabad High Court has overturned the expulsion of three minors from a school in Uttar Pradesh, providing much-needed relief in a case highlighting the tension between individual freedoms and institutional policies.

The controversy arose when the three students were expelled from their school for allegedly bringing non-vegetarian food in their tiffin boxes. The school authorities justified their decision by asserting that the presence of non-vegetarian food had hurt the religious sentiments of other students, leading to their drastic action.

The Allahabad High Court found the expulsion unwarranted, ruling in favor of the students. The court stated that the school's decision lacked a justified basis and did not align with principles of fairness or inclusivity. It emphasized that the actions of the minors did not amount to an offense warranting such severe disciplinary measures.

• Upholding Freedom of Choice:
  The judgment reaffirms the students’ right to dietary freedom. It underscores the importance of respecting individual dietary preferences within a diverse society like India, where food habits are deeply influenced by culture, religion, and personal choice.
• Institutional Accountability:
  The court's ruling highlights the need for educational institutions to foster inclusivity and ensure a nurturing environment for students. Schools are reminded of their responsibility to address conflicts sensitively, without resorting to punitive measures that could disrupt a child’s education.
• Precedent for Inclusivity:
  This judgment is likely to resonate beyond this case, setting a precedent for handling similar disputes in educational settings. It reinforces the importance of balancing religious sentiments with individual rights, promoting coexistence in diverse communities.

The case has sparked broader conversations about the role of schools in managing cultural and religious differences. Experts emphasize the importance of sensitization programs for educators and students to promote understanding and reduce conflicts arising from differences in food habits, attire, or beliefs.

The Allahabad High Court’s decision is a significant step toward ensuring that educational institutions remain spaces of learning and inclusivity, free from discrimination. As schools navigate complex cultural dynamics, this verdict serves as a reminder that fairness and respect for individual rights must remain central to their ethos.

The National Law University Delhi (NLU Delhi) has unveiled the counselling schedule for the All India Law Entrance Test (AILET) 2025 for its BA LLB and LLM programs. The announcement marks the next crucial step for aspiring law students aiming to secure admission to one of India’s top law schools.

Important Dates for AILET 2025 Counselling

Registration Start Date: December 13, 2024
Last Date to Register: December 20, 2024
First Provisional Merit List Release: December 27, 2024
Counselling Fee and Seat Details
Registration Fee:
INR 30,000 (General category)
INR 20,000 (Reserved categories)
Seat Availability:
BA LLB: 110 seats
LLM: 70 seats

Reservations are in place for candidates under PwD, SC, ST, OBC, and EWS categories, ensuring inclusive access to quality legal education.
Document Checklist for Counselling

Applicants are required to upload and present the following documents during the counselling process:

For LLM Candidates: Statement of Marks of BA LLB (Hons) or LLB.
For All Candidates:
Class 10 Marksheet
Class 12 Marksheet
Character Certificate from the last attended school/college
Relevant Category Certificate (if applicable)
How to Register
Candidates must complete their registration through the official NLU Delhi website by the deadline. Ensure all documents are in order to avoid any last-minute hassles.

The AILET counselling process is a gateway for law aspirants to secure a place at NLU Delhi, known for its rigorous academic curriculum, excellent faculty, and stellar placement records. With limited seats and a competitive selection process, timely registration and accurate documentation are essential.

The Supreme Court of India has directed the Central Government to shift its focus from distributing free rations to creating employment opportunities as a sustainable measure to combat poverty and unemployment.

The court’s suggestion comes amid ongoing discussions about the long-term viability of providing free rations to nearly 81.35 crore people under various welfare schemes. While recognizing the immediate relief such programs offer, the Supreme Court highlighted the need for structural solutions that address unemployment and empower individuals to achieve self-sufficiency.

According to the court, employment generation initiatives would have a more sustainable impact on poverty alleviation and income inequality. By prioritizing job creation and skill development, the government can help citizens transition from dependency on welfare to self-reliance, thus improving their quality of life.

The Central Government has been directed to respond to the court’s recommendations and present a comprehensive plan for implementing employment-focused programs. The court’s directive is viewed as a significant call for policy shifts aimed at strengthening the economy through increased job opportunities and workforce development.

Experts and social activists have welcomed the move, asserting that employment generation is a more effective long-term solution to tackle poverty. They argue that while free rations address immediate food insecurity, creating sustainable livelihoods ensures economic stability for individuals and families, leading to broader social progress.

The Supreme Court’s directive has reignited the debate on balancing welfare programs with economic growth. A renewed focus on employment initiatives is expected to enhance skill development, encourage entrepreneurship, and open avenues for meaningful work, thereby reducing dependency on state-provided relief.

The government’s response to the court’s suggestion is anticipated in the coming weeks, with stakeholders eager to see actionable steps toward addressing unemployment and fostering economic empowerment across the country.

There is growing support for law schools to enhance their curricula by integrating and prioritizing the teaching of mediation and negotiation skills. Experts argue that these competencies are essential for modern legal practice, yet they often receive insufficient focus in traditional law school programs. By emphasizing these skills, law schools can better prepare students for the evolving demands of the legal profession, where resolving disputes outside of court is increasingly valued.

Mediation and negotiation are integral parts of the legal landscape, particularly as alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods continue to gain prominence. These skills enable lawyers to facilitate amicable agreements between parties, saving time, money, and resources compared to lengthy courtroom battles. However, many law schools have traditionally concentrated on litigation and the theoretical aspects of law, often neglecting the practical, hands-on skills required to mediate and negotiate effectively.

Experts suggest that incorporating mediation and negotiation into law school curricula can provide students with a well-rounded education, blending both the legal theory and the practical tools necessary for successful legal practice. Mediation, in particular, is viewed as an effective method for resolving disputes in a way that benefits all parties involved, making it a critical skill for lawyers to master.

Some law schools have already begun to adopt innovative teaching methods to enhance their students' mediation and negotiation abilities. These methods include role-playing exercises, simulations, and real-world case studies that allow students to practice these skills in a controlled, supportive environment. Such approaches not only teach theoretical knowledge but also equip students with practical experience in handling complex negotiations and mediations.

By elevating mediation and negotiation skills within the curriculum, law schools can better prepare students for the multifaceted nature of modern legal practice. This shift can empower the next generation of lawyers to become more effective problem-solvers, helping clients reach resolutions that are mutually beneficial and avoiding the time and costs associated with litigation.

As per Bar and Council reports, as the legal field increasingly values dispute resolution outside the courtroom, it is essential for law schools to prioritize the teaching of mediation and negotiation skills. This shift in focus will equip future lawyers with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-evolving legal landscape, ultimately benefiting clients and society as a whole.