Interview of : Bhumika Sharma, Research Scholar, Labour laws, Department of Laws, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla-5 (H.P.).

How you see the existing legal system of the country?

Indian legal system is undergoing various changes in the past decade. The people have now access to non judicial means to settle and resolve their disputes. The Parliament is also continuously formulating advanced legislations to suit the changed social conditions. At the same time, civil society – the non governmental bodies have emerged to create awareness among the masses.

Which is the legislation you consider significant to protect the rights of younger generations ?

The Parliament must be commended  for enacting stronger legislations to protect the rights of persons below the age of 18 years. Last 12 years witnessed new legislations and amendments to the existing legislations for them. Various rights of the young India are protected under Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005; The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006; The Right of Children to Free & Compulsory Education Act, 2009; Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act, 2012; The Juvenile Justice (Care & Protection of Children) Act, 2015 ; Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016.

What advice you would give to the students pursuing legal education at the graduate level?

For the young students pursuing legal education, the advice is to read as much as they can. They must read beyond the material available freely on the Internet. They should develop the habit to consult Journals and read case-laws. They must be encouraged to read reference books in addition to the text-books.

What is your vision of developed India?

A country needs more than economic development to become developed. I really hope poverty is eradicated and the difference between the rich & poor decreases. Inspite of number of schemes and programmes by the government , a part of the population is still homeless and dying due to minor reasons. Awareness and literacy are really far off targets for the country which lacks food, shelter and safety.

Do you agree that India continues to be a secular nation ?

Various debates and controversies do arise in India on the ground of religious diversity. These controversies are mostly created for personal benefits by few persons. India as a society still embrace religious diversity and people have respect for others’ religious faiths.

Interview By : Ms. Saumya Snehal, CNLU, Patna