Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: Students of the Institute of Legal Studies (ILS), operating under Ranchi University, have filed a petition in the Jharkhand High Court alleging serious discrepancies in the issuance of their law degrees. The case was heard on Wednesday by Justice Rajesh Kumar, following months of protests by students that yielded no administrative action.
Controversy Over ‘Institute’ vs ‘Department’ Label
Students argue that while ILS is technically a university department, the degrees awarded mention it as an “Institute,” which they fear could undermine the validity of their qualifications in the job market and higher education. They questioned why, if it’s a department, it is being run under the “institute” label at all.
University officials maintain that ILS is indeed a department but functions under the name “Institute of Legal Studies” — a justification that hasn’t satisfied students or legal observers.
Key Demands: Moot Court, Faculty Shortage, Permanent Director
The petition also highlights other academic and administrative gaps:
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No moot court has been established, despite repeated requests.
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Only 6 faculty members are currently employed, whereas BCI norms require 10.
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There is no permanent director, which adds to the institution’s governance issues.
HOD vs Director Violation of BCI Norms
According to Bar Council of India (BCI) guidelines, only a Head of Department (HOD) should be appointed in a university law department. However, ILS is being headed by a “Director” and “Deputy Director,” which the students argue is a violation of BCI rules and puts the legality of their degrees at risk.
Court Orders University to Respond Within 4 Weeks
Justice Rajesh Kumar directed Ranchi University officials — including the Dean, Controller of Examinations (CVS), Director, Deputy Director, Registrar, and others — to file detailed responses within four weeks, clearly stating who is responsible for the discrepancies and what corrective steps are being taken.
Next Hearing Holds Key to Student Relief
Petitioners Ambesh Chaubey, Aryan Dev, Tushar Dubey, and Devesh Nand Tiwari — along with several ILS students — await the next hearing with hopes of judicial relief and institutional correction.
