CfP: International Conference on ‘Reforms in Criminal Laws: Past, Present and Future’ by CASCL and CADR, RGNUL, Patiala [October 19]

About Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law

Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab, was established by the State Legislature of Punjab by passing the Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab Act, (Punjab Act No. 12 of 2006).

The Act incorporated a University of Law of national stature in Punjab, thereby fulfilling the need for a Centre of Excellence in legal education in the modern era of globalization and liberalization.

About Centre for Advanced Studies In Criminal Law

The Centre for Advanced Studies in Criminal Law (“CASCL”) is an initiative established by the Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law to focus on advanced study and research in the field of Criminal Law. Major areas of focus and research for the Center include:

• Reforms in Substantive and Procedural Criminal Law 
• Development of Criminal Justice Policy and Practice 
• Human Rights and Rule of Law 
• Sentencing Policies and Correctional Systems 
• Justice for Victims 

About Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution

The Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution (“CADR”) has been established to promote students ’ and researchers’ interest in Alternative Dispute Resolution constituting dispute resolution methods like Arbitration, Negotiation, Mediation, and Conciliation.

ADR mechanisms are slowly gaining momentum and are becoming a part of the Indian justice delivery system. CADR endeavours to promote and develop ADR as a vehicle of socio-economic and political justice. The ultimate objective of the Centre is to strengthen ADR mechanism in the country by emerging as a platform for students to further their interests in the field.

About the Conference

The International Conference on Criminal Laws focuses on critically analyzing India’s newly introduced Criminal Laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.

These laws represent a departure from the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC), emphasizing restorative justice and enhancing protections for women, children, and vulnerable groups. Discussions will explore the integration of modern technological advancements in legal procedures and evidence handling to streamline judicial processes and ensure fairness.

Any illegal conduct or transgression is considered a crime against the State under criminal law, not the victim, and only the State has the authority to prosecute it. As alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is a conflict resolution process, it is limited to minor crimes such as marital disputes and motor vehicle charges because it is difficult to classify crimes as disputes. However, there are a lot of cases that are ongoing in Indian courts right now.

Reducing the excessive workload of litigation on the courts is also imperative.

The conference’s main goal is to expand the use of alternative dispute resolution in criminal trials and highlight its crucial importance in light of recent changes to the law.

Furthermore, the Conference shall explore the Indian system of ADR, including its kinds, functions, and involvement in the criminal justice system. Additionally, a brief comparison of ADR in criminal justice across various nations will be covered.

Themes

• Decolonizing Legal Systems 
• Restorative vs. Punitive Justice 
• Protection of Vulnerable Groups 
• Gender Neutral Laws 
• Legal Measures Against Child Exploitation and Trafficking 
• Technological Integration in Legal Systems 
• Organized Crime 
• Terrorism and Related Offences 
• Extradition Rights of the Accused and Fair Trial 
• Human Rights and Legal Reforms 
• Importance of Public Legal Education and Awareness 
• Role of NGOs and Civil Society in Legal Reforms and Advocacy 
• Influence of Media in Understanding of Legal Reforms 
• Role and Effectiveness of Fast-Track Courts 
• Role of ADR in Criminal Case  

Tentative Schedule

• Last Date for Abstract Submission: 15th September 2024 
• Notification of Acceptance of Abstract: 20th September 2024 
• Last Date of Registration: 30th September 2024 
• Last date to submit Full Paper: 10th October 2024 

Registration Fees

• Academicians/Professionals: INR 800 + GST 
• Students/Researchers: INR 500 + GST 
• For any co-authorship: INR 1200 + GST  

Contact

Email: events@rgnul.ac.in.