Chandigarh, March 2025 – The Prof. (Dr.) Anil Kumar Thakur Debating Society, Department of Laws, Panjab University, in collaboration with the Department of Philosophy, successfully organized the 4th Prof. (Dr.) Anil Kumar Thakur Memorial Lecture. The lecture, titled “Law, Justice, and Politics: A Complicated Grid,” was delivered by Prof. Bhupinder Brar, Professor Emeritus at the Department of Political Science, Panjab University. Dr. Pankaj Srivastava, Chairperson, Department of Philosophy, presided over the session as the Chair.
The event featured an insightful discourse by Prof. Bhupinder Brar, who emphasized the significance of institutions remembering their historical, cultural, and intellectual heritage. He lauded the Debating Society for its initiative in fostering critical discussion. Prof. Brar explored the interplay between law, justice, and politics, highlighting the complexities involved in defining justice, the balance between equality and distribution, and the role of political intervention in legal frameworks. He also invoked Victor Hugo’s concept of diffuse power while stressing the importance of legitimate lawmaking and representation.
Adding further philosophical depth to the discussion, Prof. Pankaj Srivastava examined the underlying assumptions that shape legislative processes aimed at maintaining societal order and peace. Meanwhile, Professor Emeritus Varinder Kumar provided an insightful analysis of dharma, law, and ethics, tracing their evolution towards the modern “rule of law.”
A significant highlight of the event was the generous contribution of Rs. 10 lakh by Prof. Varinder Kumar and his wife toward a memorial scholarship aimed at perpetuating Prof. Thakur’s vision. Prof. Bhupinder Brar also donated his remuneration from the lecture to the Prof. (Dr.) Anil Kumar Thakur Debating Society, further institutionalizing Prof. Thakur’s intellectual legacy.
The event commenced with a formal welcome address by Prof. Supinder Kaur, Coordinator of the Prof. Anil Kumar Thakur Debating Society. Dr. Lallan Baghel introduced the theme and the distinguished speaker, while Prof. Shipra Gupta delivered the vote of thanks. The lecture saw participation from professors and students across various departments, underscoring the importance of engaging in critical discourse on these fundamental societal issues in memory of Prof. Thakur.
