Global governance across the world is undergoing a significant transition with the rapid changing of state sovereignty. The legitimacy attached to state sovereignty has been gradually eroded with the rise of populist governments around the globe. The international laws and their governing organizations such as the United Nations failed to reinforce the state sovereignty. This has effectively given rise to the scenario of Jurgen Habermas' theorem of 'legitimation crisis' which is a deepening of the governance crisis in the United Nations and its allied organizations. India's scenario to the permanent membership of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) provides a relevant context to explore and analyse Habermas legitimation crisis. India's aspiration of UNSC permanent membership is far from reality in spite of its growing economic power. India's economic legitimation is insufficient to meet and overcome the challenges associated with the P-5 nations (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) in convincing them to vote for India's permanent membership in UNSC. In the changing geopolitical realities and political economy scenario of the world there is an urgent need to revisit the structural deficits in the institutions of global governance. Asia, Latin America and Africa are underrepresented in the current form of UNSC. India, Japan, Germany, Brazil and South Africa are the main contenders for permanent UNSC membership. India is pushing for UNSC reforms to make it a more representative and inclusive body from its elitist framework. The functional experience of 80 years of the United Nations and its Security Council have failed to meet the expectations of the modern state and its necessities. The ongoing war between USA-Iran, RussiaUkraine and the growing trade tensions between China and USA demonstrates the need for governance reforms within the UN and UNSC. India with its growing economic power in the global market has no doubt expanded its voice in international politics; however, it is inadequate to capture the coveted position of UNSC permanent membership. India's legitimation crisis is visible in terms of internal governance rather than its external governance factors. The declining value of rupee, deepening socio-economic inequalities, agrarian crisis, demand and supply issues, unemployment in general and underemployment among the educated young people, insufficient skills and the lack of robust support system to the MSMEs, L E X E T JANUARY - JUNE, 2026 Volume No. 26 - Issue No. 1 A glimpse of Three Days "Professional Development and Continuous Legal Education Programme for Law Officers" organised by Symbiosis Law School, Pune, in collaboration with National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), from 11th to 13th May, 2026. (On seat from left to right) Shri Rajeev Kumar Saxena, General Manager, Law Department, Head Office, NABARD; Prof (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, Director, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Dean, Faculty of Law, Symbiosis International (Deemed University); Shri Pankaj Kumar Tripathi, Deputy General Manager, National Bank Staff College, NABARD, Dr. Atmaram Shelke, Professor, SLS, Pune SHGs all causing to India's fragile economic base only to deny the political and international negotiations on the permanent membership in UNSC. The IndiaUSA trade agreement (2026) has only raised marginal confidence among the investors. Politically, India's relationship with its neighbour nations is far from robust and strong enough to claim the regional leader in South Asia. The diplomatic, trade and security concerns with China, Pakistan and Bangladesh holding back India from extending its voice in the international forum on its aspiration of UNSC permanent seat. India's sole dependence on the strength of economic growth is grossly inadequate without addressing the aspects of employability and skills of the domestic workforce. This is critical as it shapes the real economic power base to push UNSC and P-5 nations to seriously give a thought of amending the UN charter to facilitate inclusion of India into UNSC's permanent membership. (Dr. Nayakara Veeresha, Assistant Professor, SLS, Pune) 01 PATRONS Dr. S. B. Mujumdar Chancellor, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) Dr. (Mrs). Vidya Yeravdekar Pro-Chancellor, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) Dr. Ramakrishnan Raman Vice-Chancellor, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) EDITOR IN CHIEF Prof. Dr. Shashikala Gurpur, Fulbright Scholar Director, Symbiosis Law School, Pune . Dean, Faculty of Law, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) Jean Monnet Chair Professor (EUC-LAMP co-funded by EU) Honorary Professor, University of Galway, Ireland. FACULTY EDITORS Dr. Shafi Ahmad Khanday Assistant Professor, SLS Pune Dr. Ritam Sarkar Assistant Professor, SLS Pune Dr. Mohit Joshi Assistant Professor, SLS Pune Ms. Juhi Singh Information Officer, SLS, Pune
1. Symbiosis Law School, Pune has ranked 1st in the List of Top Supreme Law School, Top Law School by State and Top Law School by Region under GHRDC 2026. 2. Symbiosis Law School, Pune has ranked 1st in the List of Top Supreme Law Schools in India and Top Law School by State under CSR Law School Survey 2026. Opening Ceremony of Sybhav '26 (left to right) Hon. Shri Justice R. C. Chavan, Ms Radhika Deshpande, Prof (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, Dr. Aparajita Mohanty and Harshkumar Pendhakar (Convenor Symbhav'26) GRAND EVENTS Symbhav 2026 ● Opening Ceremony Symbiosis Law School, Pune, a constituent of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), inaugurated the 18th edition of Symbhav'26 on March 14, 2026. Over the years, Symbhav has evolved into a premier celebration of legal, cultural, and sporting excellence, fostering creativity, collaboration, and holistic student engagement. This year's theme, “Petals of Infinity,” beautifully captured the spirit of growth, diversity, and the limitless potential of young minds. Dr. Shashikala Gurpur delivering the opening remarks at Symbhav 2026 The opening ceremony commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp and was graced by Hon. Justice R. C. Chavan, Retired Judge of the Bombay High Court, and Chief Guest Ms. Radhika Deshpande. Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, Director, SLS Pune, addressed the gathering, inspiring students to embrace opportunities beyond academics. The unveiling of the Symbhav'26 film, followed by captivating musical and dance performances, set an energetic and celebratory tone for the festival. Symbhav'26 witnessed an impressive footfall of 1,250 students from 92 colleges across India, including 413 participants from SLS Pune and 847 from other institutions, reflecting its strong national presence and continued popularity. The festival offered a diverse array of events spanning law, culture, literature, sports, and fine arts, reinforcing its multidisciplinary character. Hon. Shri Justice R. C. Chavan, Retired Judge of the Bombay High Court, felicitated as Chief Guest 02
SLSP Conclave Ms. Radhika Deshpande, actor, director, Drama Teacher, Producer and author with Dr. Shashikala Gurpur ● Law Theatre – Symbhav 2026 ● SLSP Conclave – Symbhav 2026 Symbiosis Law School, Pune, organised its flagship event, Law Theatre, as part of Symbhav'26 on March 14, 2026, at the SVC Auditorium. A renowned student-led tradition of the institute, Law Theatre uniquely blends law and performing arts to encourage reflection on important legal and social issues through creative storytelling. Symbiosis Law School, Pune hosted the SLSP Conclave 2026 under the aegis of Symbhav'26 on March 14, 2026. Upholding its legacy of fostering meaningful discourse, the conclave focused on the theme “Rewriting Labour Laws: Assessing the Promise & Pitfalls of the New Labour Codes.” The conclave was graced with a welcome address by Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, Director, SLS Pune and Adv. Archana Pathak Dave, Learned Additional Solicitor General of India, as the Chief Guest, whose address highlighted key legal and policy considerations surrounding the new labour codes. This year theme, “Manimekalai: Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah (Y‘m} aj{V a{jV…)”, Directed by Mr. Sachin Malvi, Screenwriter, Director, Executive Producer, and Theatre Practitioner, centred on the theme “Moral Conscience Challenging Systems of Justice.” The play explored the ethical conflict that emerges when systems of punishment are challenged by the very values of compassion, morality, and justice they aim to uphold. Presented by the Cultural Committee, the play received immense appreciation for its impactful narrative and powerful execution. The panel discussion, moderated by Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, brought together distinguished experts who deliberated on critical issues such as labour rights, regulatory challenges, social security for gig workers, and the balance between ease of doing business and labour welfare. The conclave concluded with engaging discussions and insightful perspectives, reinforcing its role as a platform for academic and policy-oriented dialogue on contemporary legal developments. A trial scene bringing the complexities of justice, morality, and conscience to life Inauguration of SLSP Conclave '26: Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, along with Adv. Archana Pathak Dave (Learned Additional Solicitor General of India), Dr. Banusri Velpandian (Sr. Specialist in Law, Research & Networking), Adv. (Dr.) Shrikant Malegaonkar (Director of Malegaonkar & Associates), Mr. Atul Gupta (Partner at Trilegal) ● Symbhav Pronite DAY-2 Symbhav 2026 featured ABLAZE Fashion Show, followed by a special Pronite Band performance for the students and the SLS Pune community. The band Arya Salvi delivered an engaging and lively musical experience, adding to the festive spirit. 03
The 11th edition of the Symbiosis Law School Parliamentary Debate (SLSPD), held from 27th February to 1st March 2026 at SLS Pune, brought together 58 teams from across India in the British Parliamentary format. With a distinguished adjudication panel including Mr. Rushdoon Ahmed, Ms. Gaurangi Pande, Ms. Minami Matsushima, Mr. Vansh Chadha, and Mr. Muhyuddin Ahsan, the tournament featured debates on law, policy, social justice, and economics. IIT Bombay won the Open Grand Final, while Aryan Qadri and Jash Dholani secured the Novice title, further cementing SLSPD's reputation as a leading debating tournament in India. Students participating in Ablaze Fashion Show Panel for Opening Ceremony of SLSPD 2026 DAY-3 Benny Dayal, the renowned playback singer, along with his sensational band, delivered a high-energy performance at Symbhav'26, emerging as one of the festival's major highlights. Winners of the Novice finals being awarded Symbiosis Law School Pune Model United Nations (SLSPMUN) 2026 The Symbiosis Law School Pune Model United Nations 2026 (SLSPMUN 2026) was successfully held from March 13 to 15, 2026, at the Symbiosis Law School, Pune campus. The conference brought together over 260 participants from schools and colleges from across Maharashtra and India, fostering diplomatic dialogue, academic engagement, and multilateral discourse. The event commenced with an inaugural address by Retired Ambassador Skand Ranjan Tayal, who highlighted the importance of diplomacy in today's global order. Over two days, eight committees deliberated on key global and national issues, including international security, climate change, data protection, gender equality, and indigenous rights. 04
Deliberations centered on contemporary issues such as the role of AI in legal research, the introduction of legal education at the school level, and reforms in the LL.B. curriculum, with several speakers strongly advocating for the integration of constitutional and legal education at the foundational stage. The winners of the competition were: ● 1st Prize: Faith Chigudu – Vishwakarma University ● 2nd Prize: Alfiya – MIT ADT University ● 3rd Prize: Hrishikesh Baroowa – New Law College, Bharatiya Vidyapeeth Skand Ranjan Taya delivering his speech on the importance of diplomacy Inauguration of the competition by the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries Dr. Shashikala Gurpur delivering her opening remarks during SLSPMUN 2026 Esteemed panel of the judges along with the winners of the competition Students attending the SLSPMUN 2026 Nani A. Palkhivala Inter-Collegiate Elocution Competition 2026 SICTA On 9th February 2026, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, in collaboration with the Nani A. Palkhivala Memorial Trust, hosted the Nani A. Palkhivala Inter-Collegiate Elocution Competition at the Moot Court Hall at 11:00 AM. The event was graced by an esteemed panel of judges comprising Hon'ble Justice (Retd.) Dr. Shalini Phansalkar Joshi, Former Judge of the Bombay Highcourt, Rupal Rautdesai, Visiting Professor, SLS, Pune and Ranjitsinh Jayendra Pawar, CoFounder and Partner at SRB-OJAS, along with the distinguished presence of Claes Granmar, Associate Professor at Stockholm University. Symbiosis Law School, Pune, a constituent of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), successfully hosted the 11th edition of the International Criminal Trial Advocacy (SICTA) from 02nd– 05th April 2026. Renowned for simulating proceedings before the International Criminal Court, the competition attracted 27 teams from India and across the globe. The competition has consistently attracted premier law schools from India and across the world, including teams from China, U.K., Poland, Malaysia, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa, and Kuwait. The event was graced by Hon'ble Mr. Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, Former Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court, with a welcome The competition witnessed participation from 13 students, including 05
of Symbiosis Law School – Pune, Dean of Faculty of Law, SIU, Jean Monnet Chair Professor (EUC-LAMP, co-funded by the European Union) and Honorary Professor, University of Galway, Ireland. This year's theme for SICTA 2026 focused on “International conflict occasioned due to the inequitable distribution of access to critical large language models, especially in the context of intergovernmental policies adverse to refugees and migrants.” After rigorous rounds, National Law School of India University, Bengaluru, emerged as the winner. NALSAR, Hyderabad, won the Best Memorial award, while ILS Law College, Pune, secured the Second-Best Memorial award. The competition concluded with a valedictory ceremony graced by Hon'ble Mr. Justice Arun R. Pedneker and Adv. Dinyar Jalnawalla, marking the success of yet another intellectually enriching edition. Prof. Dr. Shashikala Gurpur addressing the audience Adv. Rangeet Sangle speaking about colonial legacies in criminal procedure Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur Ma'am and Hon'ble Mr. Justice Arun R. Pedneker presenting the certificate of 'Winners' to Managya Sinha (NLSIU) Adv Shobhit Mathur interaction with the audience International Youth Sustainability Forum 2026 (IYSF 2026). Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur Ma'am and Hon'ble Mr. Justice Arun R. Pedneker presenting the Trophy to 2nd Runners Up, Lloyd College On 21st February 2026, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, in collaboration with the Centre for Sustainability Development (CSD), organized the first-ever Mock COP at Symbiosis International University as part of the International Youth Sustainability Forum 2026 (IYSF 2026). The event, attended by more than 50 participants, aimed to strengthen participants' policy drafting and diplomatic negotiation skills while enhancing their understanding of global climate governance frameworks, including the UNFCCC process and World Bank initiatives. Yugantar: National Law Conclave 2026 On 20th–21st February 2026, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, in collaboration with Pravah, ILS Law College, and Pune Samvad, hosted Yugantar: National Law Conclave 2026. A key highlight of the conclave was a panel discussion featuring IPS Praveen Dixit and IPS Ravindra Sengaonkar, moderated by Dr. Girish Abhayankar, which examined the balance between state authority and justice, accountability, and public trust within constitutional limits. 06
achievements Champawati Dodd Civil Service Awards Symbiosis Law School, Pune organised the Champawati Dodd Civil Service Awards on 22nd April 2026. The event recognised the exceptional accomplishments of its alumni in the Civil Services Examination 2025, wherein Ms. Rupal Jaiswal, Mr. Devansh Gupta, and Mr. Devansh Saraswat secured All India Ranks 43, 77, and 221, respectively. Participants during the International Youth Sustainability Forum 2026 (IYSF 2026) Farewell 2026 Symbiosis Law School, Pune organised 'Farewell '26' from 13th 18th April 2026, an interactive memory space, encouraging participation and creating lasting keepsakes which featured a thoughtfully conceptualised themed photobooth that served as both a visually striking decorative centrepiece for outgoing students. A dynamic and emotionally engaging stage performance was delivered, capturing themes of friendship, growth, and new beginnings, and leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Prof. Dr. Shashikala Gurpur distributing the Diwali Gift Cards Programme for NABARD Law Officers Symbiosis Law School, Pune, in collaboration with NABARD, successfully organised a three-day “Professional Development and Continuing Legal Education Programme for Law Officers” from 11th to 13th May 2026 at Sandipani, SIU, Hilltop Campus, Lavale, Pune. The programme witnessed the participation of 26 trainee officers and featured expert sessions by industry professionals, legal practitioners, and faculty members from SLS, Pune, with a total of 17 speakers contributing to deliberations on contemporary legal and regulatory issues including Cyber Laws, DPDP Act, RTI, Labour Codes, PoSH, AI in Banking, Project Finance, IBC, ADR, and Service Jurisprudence. The initiative provided a valuable platform for professional learning, institutional dialogue, and practical legal engagement among NABARD Law Officers. 07
On 19th February 2026, the Student Advisory Board of Symbiosis Law School, Pune organised a celebration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti to commemorate the birth anniversary of the visionary ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and to reflect upon his enduring ideals of courage, leadership, and Swarajya. The programme featured a documentary screening on the life of the great Maratha leader, highlighting his military achievements, administrative reforms, and unwavering commitment to public welfare. Three-Day Professional Development and Legal Education Programme for NABARD Law Officers Dr. Shashikala Gurpur paying tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ● International Yoga Day On 21st June 2026, Symbiosis Law School, Pune organised an International Yoga Day programme. The session was conducted by Mr. Wasim (DSRW) and attended by approximately 50 students. It featured discussions on the importance of yoga for physical and mental well-being, guided yoga and breathing exercises, insights into the role of yoga under the National Education Policy (NEP), and an interactive quiz. The programme successfully encouraged students to adopt yoga as a practice for a healthy, balanced, and holistic lifestyle. Dr. Shashikala Gurpur distributing certificates CULTURAL EVENTS ● Republic Day Celebrations 2026 On 26 January 2026, the 77th Republic Day was celebrated at Symbiosis Viman Nagar New Campus. The event commenced with a flag-hoisting ceremony, the National Anthem, and a welcome address by Dr. Shashikala Gurpur, Director, SLS-P. This was followed by a video message from Prof. (Dr.) S. B. Mujumdar, Chancellor. Prof. Shivali Lawale, Director, SSIS, Pune, was the Chief Guest for the event. The event concluded with vibrant cultural performances by students of SLS-P and SSIS. Faculties, students, and administrative staff on the occasion of the Republic Day 2026 Faculty members and students attending the International Yoga Day programme 08
Prof Robert Schapiro, Dean of Law University of San Diego USA and Dr. Shashikala Gurpur, Director Symbiosis Law School, Pune along with faculty members SCALSAR Guest Lecture and Faculty Development Programmes (FDP) ● On 6th February 2026, a Faculty Development Programme on “A Fusion of Style Between Italy and India: Legal and Cultural Dimensions in Fashion” was conducted, exploring the intersections of fashion, cultural heritage, intellectual property rights, AI-related challenges, and ethical practices. The session was delivered by Claudia Del Re, Professor at the University of Florence, specialising in Intellectual Property and Data Protection, and highlighted key aspects such as Geographical Indications (Gis), licensing, and comparative legal frameworks. ● Prof. Claudia Del Re, Ph.D., LL.M Senior Lecturer, University of Florence & Istituto Marangoni Fashion School Scholar in Residence, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, delivered guest lectures and conducted workshops for LL.M. (IPR) students and law undergraduates, covering topics such as copyright, IP trade, and asset management on 16th January 2026. The lectures highlighted a global perspective on contemporary IP issues, fostering comparative legal analysis and linking theory with practical policy insights. She is also collaborating with faculty on research in Intellectual Property Rights. ● On January 23, 2026, the SCALSAR FDP Team, in collaboration with the International Cell, conducted a Faculty Development Programme on “Recent Developments in US Constitutional Law with a Focus on Executive Power”. The session was delivered by Prof. Robert A. Schapiro, Dean of Law, University of San Diego, USA. Dr. Shashikala Gurpur felicitates Prof. Claudia Del Re in recognition of her insightful session on the legal and cultural dimensions of fashion ● On 17th February 2026, Symbiosis Law School, Pune organised a SCALSAR Faculty Development Programme on “Recent Developments in Tort Law” and “AI and EU Regulatory Sandboxes: Compliance, Innovation and Governance under the AI Act.” The sessions were delivered by Martin Hogg of the University of Galway and Claes Granmar of Stockholm University, examining contemporary developments in tort law and the evolving EU regulatory framework on artificial intelligence. The programme commenced with a welcome address by Shashikala Gurpur, Director of Symbiosis Law School, Pune and Dean of the Faculty of Law at Symbiosis International (Deemed) University. Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur felicitating Prof. Robert Schapiro, Dean of Law, University of San Diego, USA 09
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