Chennai, 14th September 2024 — Vinayaka Mission’s Law School
(VMLS), mentored by OP Jindal Global University, marked the
commencement of its academic year with a grand inaugural ceremony
for the 2024-25 batch. Held at the Indoor Auditorium on the AV
Campus, Paiyanoor, Chennai, the event brought together eminent
figures from the legal community, faculty, and students.
The ceremony was graced by Hon'ble Justice (Retd.) Dr. Balbir
Singh Chauhan, former judge of the Supreme Court of India, who
delivered the keynote address on the theme “Framing the Indian
Constitution: Its Working and Reforms.” His insightful speech
focused on the evolution and significance of the Indian
Constitution, emphasizing the role of young legal minds in shaping
the future of India’s legal framework. Justice Chauhan also
encouraged students to read newspapers regularly and stay informed
about current legal issues, advising them to critically analyze
important legal articles and write blogs or articles on these
topics.
Also present was Mr. Vivek Dhokalia, Advocate at the Supreme Court
of India and Adjunct Professor at VMLS, who delivered a special
address focused on personal and professional development. His
advice to students included the importance of developing the habit
of wide reading, trusting in their own abilities, and leading a
balanced life by pursuing holistic development.
Dr. A.S. Ganesan, Chancellor, Vinayaka Mission's Research
Foundation (Deemed to be a University), welcomed the new batch
with enriching words, encouraging them to pursue their legal
studies with dedication and a commitment to justice. His remarks
set the tone for a meaningful academic journey for the new
students.
Mr. Suresh Samuel, a member of the Board of Management at VMRF,
also addressed the gathering. He emphasized that "lawyers are
change makers" and shared the vision and mission of VMLS,
inspiring students to take on their roles with dedication and
responsibility.
Dr. Ananth Padmanabhan, Dean of VMLS, addressed the gathering by
outlining the strategic vision for the academic year ahead. He
emphasized the importance of building a collaborative learning
environment, where students not only excel in legal theory but
also gain practical insights through internships and legal
clinics. Dr. Padmanabhan highlighted the initiatives undertaken by
the law school to equip students with a global perspective on
legal issues, fostering their growth as future leaders in the
legal fraternity.
In addition to the keynote speeches, the event concluded with
addresses by Mr. Winfred Chelliah, Associate Dean - Campus
Affairs, and Mr. Nishant Sheokand, Associate Dean - Academic
Affairs, VMLS, both of whom emphasized the importance of holistic
development and ethical practice in legal education.
The inaugural session set the tone for what promises to be an
enriching academic year, filled with rigorous learning,
professional development, and the pursuit of justice.