Justice Sanjeev Khanna Illuminates HPNLU Shimla with Powerful Lecture on Constitution and Judicial Legacy
In a celebration of legal intellect and constitutional spirit, Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla, hosted its 4th Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer Annual Law Lecture, drawing a distinguished crowd of jurists, scholars, and students. The keynote was delivered by Hon’ble Justice Sanjeev Khanna, former Chief Justice of India and a respected faculty member at HPNLU, who spoke passionately on “The Preamble and the Basic Structure Doctrine: Judicial Interpretation and Constitutional Progression.”
Justice Khanna’s Reflections on the Constitution
Justice Khanna captivated the audience with his deep insights into the soul of the Indian Constitution—the Preamble. He emphasized the power of the opening words, “We, the People of India,” as a testament to the nation’s collective will and democratic foundation. Advocating for stronger constitutional education, he proposed that the Basic Structure Doctrine be taught as a full-fledged subject in law schools to help students grasp the essence of India’s legal framework.
He also paid heartfelt tribute to Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer, calling him a transformative figure in Indian jurisprudence whose compassion and reformist zeal left an indelible mark on the legal system.
Presidential Address by Justice Sandhawalia
Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia, Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and Chancellor of HPNLU, delivered the Presidential Address, revisiting Justice Krishna Iyer’s legacy. He highlighted Iyer’s expansive interpretation of Article 21, which broadened the scope of human dignity and liberty in India. Justice Sandhawalia praised Iyer’s pioneering work in bail reform, prison rights, and advocacy for the marginalized.
Academic Leadership and Institutional Growth
HPNLU Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena welcomed the dignitaries and reaffirmed the importance of the lecture series in bridging judicial experience with academic exploration. The event saw participation from High Court judges, senior advocates, government officials, and legal scholars—underscoring HPNLU’s rising prominence as a hub for legal excellence.
A Leap into the Digital Future
The day also marked the inauguration of HPNLU’s Digitized Library by Justice Khanna. Outfitted with a Hybrid RFID System and a Patron Traffic Counter (PTC), the new facility streamlines book circulation, enhances digital access, and improves time efficiency for students and faculty alike—signaling a major step forward in the university’s digital transformation.
Engaging Students Beyond the Lecture Hall
Justice Khanna continued his engagement with students through a special session on “Emerging Significance of ADR with Special Reference to Mediation.” He emphasized the growing role of mediation in resolving disputes and highlighted NALSA’s structured 40-hour mediator training program. Another lecture on “Law Relating to Vicarious Liability” is scheduled for October 28.
A Vision for Legal Education
The day’s events—anchored by thought-provoking lectures and the launch of a cutting-edge library—reflect HPNLU Shimla’s dual commitment to nurturing constitutional scholarship and embracing digital innovation. Justice Khanna’s ongoing involvement as a Distinguished Faculty member adds depth to the university’s academic environment, reinforcing its role as a dynamic space for dialogue between the judiciary and the next generation of legal minds.
