APPLICATIONS OPEN | Constitution Defenders Fellowship 2026-28 Cohort

November 26, 2025

 

 

The Centre for Law and Policy Research (CLPR) invites applications for the Constitution Defender Fellowship, a 33-month (2.75 years) litigation fellowship for practising lawyers committed to advancing constitutional rights and social justice.

 

 

We seek to appoint:

· 14 Fellows from the southern states – Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu

· 4 Fellows nationally from the rest of India

 

 

About the Fellowship

· Fellows will be required to undertake litigation and legal support for women, Dalit/Adivasi communities, gender and sexual minorities, persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups in matters involving constitutional and human rights.

· Fellows will receive structured training, mentorship, and ongoing legal support from CLPR team.

· Fellows will work in coordination with the CLPR legal team and partner organisations, providing regular updates on casework and activities.

· Fellows are required to participate in orientation programmes, litigation workshops, and capacity-building sessions conducted by CLPR.

· The Fellowship provides direct access to leading human rights lawyers, scholars, and legal networks, offering a unique platform for professional growth and litigation practice.

 

 

Eligibility

· Law graduate enrolled with the State Bar Council.

· At least 2 years of litigation experience.

· Demonstrated commitment to rights-based advocacy and social justice.

· Strong research, writing, and drafting skills in English.

 

 

Application Requirements

To apply, complete and submit the Online Application Form below.

You will also need to upload the following:

1. Your latest resume

2. A copy of your LL.B. degree certificate

3. A copy of State Bar registration/ID

4. Provide contact details of 2 references

 

 

Application Deadline

The last date to apply is December 17, 2025, 11:59 PM IST.

 

 

 

CLPR is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage persons belonging to historically marginalised and under represented communities including SC/ST backgrounds, minority religions, LGBTQIA+ persons, and persons with disabilities to apply.