News & Media Archive - Centre for Law & Policy Research

Live Law

Perception That Women Are Less Authoritative As Compared To Their Male Counter Parts Undermines Their Credibility In Court: Justice Hima Kohli

October 28, 2024

At an event marking 100 years of the Legal Practitioner’s (Women) Act, 1923, former Supreme Court Justice Hima Kohli discussed the challenges faced by women in the legal profession alongside other prominent legal personalities. Senior advocate and CLPR Executive Director Jayna Kothari, emphasized the importance of Article 15(1) of the Constitution as the foundation for protecting women’s rights, while discussing merit in the legal profession, noting that while work should be the only thing that matters, individuals inevitably carry their identities with them.

Deccan Herald

When Police Stations Turn Crime Scenes

October 23, 2024

In cases of custodial violence, police stations often transform into sites of human rights violations. The Centre for Law & Policy Research (CLPR) gets referenced in this article highlighting systemic failures, calling for accountability and reforms to protect citizens’ rights within police custody.

Citizen Matters

Workplace harassment: Women in the unorganised sector often get a raw deal

October 7, 2024

Women workers in Chennai’s unorganized sector face significant challenges in addressing workplace sexual harassment, largely due to lack of awareness about Local Complaints Committees (LCCs). Referencing CLPR’s report revealed Chennai’s LCC received only one complaint from 2014-2019. The article explores factors contributing to underreporting, including job insecurity and absent support systems, while suggesting improvements to LCC accessibility and functionality.

News Karnataka

Pothole-riddled Roads Pose Severe Risks for Bengaluru’s Specially-Abled Residents

September 12, 2024

Senior Research Associate Nithya Rajshekhar gets featured in this article advocating for practicla solutions to enhance safety and accessibility for disabled individuals in the city.

The Times of India

Experts crticise silence of BNS on sex crimes against transpersons

July 13, 2024

Senior Advocate & Executive Director of CLPR, Jayna Kothari gives her two cents on how India’s new mordernised legal code – the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), falls short for the Transgender community and renders their experiences of victimhood unseen and unadressed.

The Hindu

Madras High Court grants three months’ time to Tamil Nadu govt. to finalise a policy for transgender community

June 10, 2024

The Madras High Court granted three months’ time to the Tamil Nadu government to come up with a separate policy for the uplift of transpersons by providing them reservation and other benefits in public employment and education. Appearing for the petitioner, Senior counsel and Executive Director of CLPR, Jayna Kothari had advocated for horizontal reservation for trans persons, highlighting the need for inclusive policies in education and employment.

The New Indian Express

HD Revanna gets bail in sexual harassment case

May 21, 2024

Holenarasipura JDS MLA HD Revanna, who is facing allegations of sexual harassment was granted bail on Monday by the 42nd Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) court and Judge Preeth J. Additional Special Public Prosecutors Ashok Naik and Jayna Kothari (Executive Director of CLPR) appeared for the prosecution.

Star of Mysore

Kidnap Case: Revanna Gets Conditional Bail; Released

May 14, 2024

Executive Director of CLPR and Senior Advocate, Jayna Kothari, assigned as an Additional Special Public Prosecutor on this case argued the justification of the police act of invoking IPC sections for a kidnapping case as accused JD(S) MLA H.D. Revanna was granted bail by a Special Court for Elected Representatives.

The Times of India

Sex videos case: Special court grants conditional bail to Revanna

May 13, 2024

Executive Director of CLPR and Senior Advocate, Jayna Kothari, assigned as an Additional Special Public Prosecutor on this case argued the justification of the police act of invoking IPC sections for a kidnapping case.

Times of India

PIL in HC asks state why pvt schools kept out of RTE ambit

April 25, 2024

Senior Advocate & Executive Director of CLPR, Jayna Kothari along with fellow advocates Deepak Chatap & Payal Gaikwad, filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Nagpur Bench of Bombay High Court questioning the exclusion of private schools from the ambit of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, highlighting concerns over access to quality education.

The New Indian Express

Survey on trans persons after polls, TN tells Madras HC

April 19, 2024

Tamil Nadu government plans to conduct a survey on the population of trans persons after the election process concludes. Appearing for the petitioner, Senior counsel and Executive Director of CLPR, Jayna Kothari had advocated for horizontal reservation for trans persons, highlighting the need for inclusive policies in education and employment.

Times of India

Supreme Court: Right to health already covers palliative care access

March 9, 2024

Senior advocate Jayna Kothari appearing for the petitioner, pleaded for a declaration from the Supreme Court that palliative care is part of Right to Health under Article 21 of the Constitution, stating that, “There is no uniform provision of palliative care under the public health system in the country.”

The Hindu

High time T.N. govt. conducts survey to collect contemporaneous data on transgender population, says Madras High Court

March 5, 2024

The Madras High Court urges the Tamil Nadu government to provide adequate horizontal reservation for transgender individuals in education & public employment after finding force in the submissions of senior advocate Jayna Kothari, appearing for the petitioner.

The Print

ConQuest 2023 comes to a close. Goa University crowned champions

December 1, 2023

As the rounds progressed, questions delved into themes of constitutional history, particularly those related to Ambedkar’s constitutional and political thought.

The Print

ConQuest Quiz 2023: Contestants gear up for finale as Karnataka govt joins as key partner

November 24, 2023

On 25 November, Bengaluru will host the culmination of the regional rounds as the top two teams from Kolkata, Pune, Delhi, and Bengaluru vie to become ConQuest champions.

The Print

IIT Madras wins South Regional Champions of ConQuest 2023. Next stop, national championships

November 6, 2023

The top two teams from the four regional rounds will now compete for the title of National Champions of ConQuest in late November.

The Print

National Law University wins big at the North Region ConQuest quiz 2023

October 26, 2023

Each team comprised three members, and the quiz had a total of five rounds. The trio from NLU—Kartikya Aggarwal, Ananya, and Rishabh—won.

The Print

Goa University take the crown at the West Regional Champions of ConQuest 2023

October 19, 2023

One memorable question involved identifying the two women depicted in the artwork on the original manuscript of the Indian Constitution.

The Print

IIM Calcutta win the East Regional Round of ConQuest 2023

October 12, 2023

The theme for ConQuest 2023 is Artificial Intelligence, and a question at the Kolkata round served as a reminder that AI programs, while impressive, are not infallible.

The Print

India’s biggest quiz on Constitution ConQuest 2023 is here—this time it will take on AI

October 4, 2023

After a highly successful return from a hiatus in 2022, the Centre for Law and Policy Research, Bengaluru is back with the 7th edition of ConQuest – India’s premier national quiz focusing on the Indian Constitution, history, and politics.

Verdictum

If Husband Is Living A Good Life, Wife Cannot Be Asked To Lead A Deprived Life: Karnataka High Court While Enhancing Maintenance

September 19, 2023

The Karnataka High Court has held that if a husband is living a good life, wife cannot be asked to lead a deprived life. It has enhanced the amount of maintenance to the wife. Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari appeared on behalf of the respondent.

The New Indian Express

Plea seeking reservation for transgenders in SI selection: Madras HC directs govt to reply

July 25, 2023

THe Madras High Court directs the Tamil Nadu Govt., to file a reply to petitions seeking reservations for transgender persons in the recruitment of sub-inspector of police in the state. Jayna Kothari, Executive Director at CLPR & Senior Advocate, appearing for the petitioners says that various courts, including the Madras High Court, have ordered the provision of special reservations for transgender persons.

The News Minute

Telangana Eunuchs Act repealed, horizontal reservation is next step

July 12, 2023

The Telangana High Court passed an order striking down the Telangana Eunuchs Act, 1329 law as unconstitutional and violative of human rights, declaring it as ‘ultra vires’ to the Constitution of India. CLPR’s Executive Director, Jayna Kothari represented the petitioners in this case.

The Probe.in

LGBTQIA Rights: The Fight For Queer-Friendly Workplaces in India

July 4, 2023

In this interview piece, Executive Director at CLPR and Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India, Jayna Kothari talks to the Probe.in’s Kamna Batra on the pressing issue and the rising need of queer-friendly workplaces in India.

CNN India

Brutal killings of two young girls show one of India’s biggest problems is getting worse, advocates say

June 8, 2023

In this article, Jayna Kothari, Senior Advocate & Executive Director at CLPR talks about the recent surge in violence against women and the alarming number of teen murders which are indicative of a deeply rooted societal issue in India.

The Leaflet

Celebrating a decade of NALSA means nothing in absence of political will for inclusion and representation of transgender community— Dr Akkai Padmashali

May 30, 2023

In this interview article, Executive Director of CLPR and Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari who represented Dr. Akkai Padmashali in the Marriage Equality hearing case is mentioned giving her account on the struggles faced by Dr. Padmashali in response to an insinuation that non-heterosexuality was an “urban elite concept”.

India Today

Same Sex marriage hearing Day 10: Key Takeaways

May 30, 2023

Jayna Kothari, Executive Director at CLPR & senior advocate at the Supreme Court, alongwith other senior advocates for the petitioners argued that “marriage” should also include the larger bouquet of rights, including not just “cohabitation”, but also the “socio-legal recognition” of “marriage”.

India Today

Supreme Court reserves judgment on same-sex marriage

May 12, 2023

The ongoing Marriage Equality hearings (same-sex marriage petition) at the Supreme Court of India came to a close yesterday and the apex court has reserved its judgement on the case. Senior advocate and Executive Director of CLPR, Jayna Kothari, representing the petitioners, touched upon the Special Marriage Act 1954 being a law for freedom of choice in marriage.

Feminism In India

Demanding Dignity: Decoding The Legal Movement For Horizontal Reservations

April 25, 2023

The movement to demand horizontal reservations for trans persons has gained momentum across India, the recent protests come in the backdrop of a March 27 decision of the Supreme Court refusing to hear the plea seeking a separate horizontal extension of reservations for trans persons. In this article, CLPR’s Policy Brief, “Horizontal Reservations for Transgender Persons : Taking Intersectionality Forward” is referred to alongwith a quote by Jayna Kothari, Senior Advocate and Executive Director, CLPR, who represents the petitioner in this case.

The Week

BML Munjal University Empowers Women In Leadership and at Grassroot level Partners with FICCI WISE and G20 Empower Jan Bhagidari for its First Conference

April 3, 2023

At its first Women in Leadership (WIL) conference, BML Munjal University (BMU) celebrated the accomplishments of Women In Leadership programme (WIL) graduates as well as provided a platform for women micro-entrepreneurs to showcase their work. Among a range of exceptional people invited for this conference, Jayna Kothari, Senior Advocate at Supreme Court of India and Executive Director, Centre for Law and Policy Research was one of the panelists.

The Siasat Daily

Delhi HC allows activist’s intervention in plea on employment of transgenders

April 3, 2023

A transgender rights activist, Grace Banu has filed an “Intervention Application” before the Delhi High Court, seeking permission to support the court in a plea seeking hiring of transgender people in public appointments. Jayna Kothari, Senior Advocate and Executive Director of Centre for Law and Policy Research, Bangalore is representing the applicant.

The Global Herald

India’s top court refers same-sex marriage recognition case to 5-judge bench | The World

March 17, 2023

India’s Supreme Court will begin hearings in April surrounding legal recognition of same-sex marriages. The Indian government had previously filed a motion opposing LGBTQI+ relationships because they were “not comparable with the Indian family unit “. Jayna Kothari from The Centre for Law and Policy Research tells The World it comes almost five years since the top court de-criminalised a colonial-era ban on gay sex.

CBC News

India may become the largest country to legalize same-sex marriage. Here’s how that could happen

March 17, 2023

A landmark case to legalize same-sex marriage is about to start in India’s highest court. The decision won’t just affect the country’s 1.4 billion residents — it could have global implications and set a precedent in Asia. Jayna Kothari, Senior Advocate and Executive Director of Centre for Law and Policy Research gets interviewed about the petition and gives her insight on how this will affect the rights of the LGBTQIA+ in India.

Verdictum - The Dictum of Truth

Supreme Court Issues Notice in Plea Seeking Recognition of Transgender Persons Under Special Marriage Act 1954

February 21, 2023

The Supreme Court issued a notice in a plea filed by members of the transgender community seeking a declaration that all references to “husband” and “wife” and ‘male’ and ‘female’ in the Special Marriage Act (SMA) 1954 be read to include the words ‘or spouse’ to include all persons irrespective of their gender identity and sexual orientation. Jayna Kothari, Senior Advocate & Executive Director of Centre for Law and Policy Research, represented the petitioners on this case.

Verdictum - The Dictum of Truth

Karnataka HC Issues Directions For Trial Courts For Timely Disposal Of Maintenance Applications Under Hindu Marriage Act

February 17, 2023

The Delhi High Court has directed trial courts to dispose of maintenance applications filed under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act within 60 days of the date of service of notice to the opposite party. The Court observed that expeditious disposal of such applications was necessary to ensure that parties did not suffer due to inordinate delays. Jayna Kothari, Executive Director at CLPR and also Senior Counsel, is mentioned in the article as representing the petitioner on the case.

Feminism In India

Why There Is A Legal Debate On Anti-Conversion Laws In 2023?

February 17, 2023

In 2023, the legal debate around anti-conversion laws is gaining momentum in several states across India. While proponents of these laws argue that they are necessary to protect vulnerable populations, opponents argue that they violate basic human rights and religious freedom. Jayna Kothari, CLPR Executive Director, gets mentioned in the article giving an explanation on the law in the Indian context.

The Indian Express

V-P Jagdeep Dhankhar sparks debate with remarks on Basic Structure of Constitution; what is it?

January 19, 2023

India Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar criticises the Supreme Court for using the Basic Structure Doctrine to strike down constitutional amendments by Parliament thereby sparking a debate on the separation of powers between the executive and the judiciary. Sudhir Krishnaswamy, Managing Trustee at CLPR and Vice Chancellor of NLSIU, Bengaluru gets mentioned giving his two cents on the topic.

South China Morning Post

Indian gay couples fight for same-sex marriage rights at Supreme Court

January 19, 2023

South China Morning Post reports on the petition filed by four gay couples at the Supreme Court of India to legally recognise same-sex marriages. Jayna Kothari, Executive Director at CLPR, gives her expert opinion on the road ahead for this petition.

Bar and Bench

Karnataka High Court seeks State govt response on plea seeking separate hostels for Transgender students in educational institutions

March 24, 2022

Bar and bench reported on Karnataka High Court’s notice to the State government on a public interest litigation (PIL) petition seeking separate hostels and accommodation for transgender students in higher educational institutions in the State of Karnataka.

Bar and Bench

Transgender persons should be given separate reservation, not clubbed with women’s reservation: Madras High Court

March 23, 2022

Bar & Bench reported on the Madras Court’s order where the court recommended the State government to provide a specific percentage of separate reservation for the Third Gender (TG) or transgender persons in matters of future public employment.

Bar and Bench

Madras High Court seeks response from Tamil Nadu govt on plea seeking COVID-19 cash relief to Transgender persons not holding ration cards

May 22, 2021

Bar & Bench reported on the Madras Court’s order where the court sought a response from the Tamil Nadu government on a plea seeking COVID-19 cash relief to Transgender persons who do not possess ration cards.

Live Law

Supreme Court Seeks Centre’s Response On Plea Against Blanket Ban On Blood Donation By Transgenders, Sex Workers

March 8, 2021

Live Law reported on the Supreme Court’s order where the apex court issued a notice in a plea challenging the Union Ministry of Health blood donor guidelines that prohibit transgender persons and gay men from donating blood.

Bar and Bench

Supreme Court agrees to examine Centre’s Blood Donor guidelines that prohibit donations from gay men and transgender persons

March 6, 2021

Bar & Bench reported on the Supreme Court’s order where the apex court issued a notice in a plea challenging the Union Ministry of Health blood donor guidelines that prohibit transgender persons and gay men from donating blood.

Bar and Bench

[Cattle Slaughter Ordinance] No coercive action for transporting cattle until Rules are brought into force: State to Karnataka High Court

January 25, 2021

Bar and Bench reported on the State government of Karnataka’s submission to the Karnataka High Court that it will not take any coercive action against any person under Section 5 (Restriction on the transport of cattle) of the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Ordinance, 2020 (ordinance) till Rules framed under Section 5 are brought into force.

Bar and Bench

Examine how Horizontal Reservation can be provided for Transgender persons in public employment: Karnataka High Court

January 6, 2021

Bar & Bench reported on the High Court of Karnataka’s order asking the State government to examine whether Transgender persons can be given horizontal reservation in public employment. The court made these comments while hearing the petition, filed by Sangama, which challenged a State government notification on police constable recruitment on the grounds that it excluded a separate category for Transgender persons.

Live Law

CLPR Organising 4th International Conference On Transgender Rights & the Law [5th & 6th December 2020, Bangalore]

December 21, 2020

Live Law carried out the press release issued by the Center for Law and Policy Research on the Transform Conference 2020.

Bar and Bench

CLPR to organize TRANSFORM – 4th International Conference on Transgender Rights and the Law on Dec 5, 6

December 10, 2020

Bar & Bench carried out the press release issued by the Center for Law and Policy Research on the Transform Conference 2020.

The Print

Mumbai’s Government Law College wins grand finale of ConQuest 2020

October 27, 2020

The Print carried out a story on the recently concluded Grand Finale of ConQuest 2020, India’s Premiere National Quiz on the Indian Constitution, Politics and the Law.

Live Law

Karnataka HC Seeks Govt Response On Plea Seeking Horizontal Reservation For Transgenders Instead Of OBC Reservation

October 21, 2020

Live Law reported on the High Court of Karnataka’s order where the Court sought a response from the State government on an application filed for providing horizontal reservation to Transgender Persons in Public Employment. The applicant submitted that reservation should not be provided under the OBC category but should be provided as a horizontal reservation as a separate special category like the reservation provided for women and persons with disabilities, that can be interlocked with other social categories of vertical reservation of SC/ST/OBC category. The Court gave the direction while hearing the petition filed by Jeeva, represented by Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari and assisted by Almas Shaikh, a Research Associate at CLPR.

Bar and Bench

Give reasons for delay in filing charge sheets for offences under SC/ST Act, conduct regular training for officers: Karnataka HC

September 17, 2020

Bar & Bench reported on the High Court of Karnataka’s order where the court questioned the state government on the reasons for the delay in filing charge sheets in cases under the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 (SC/ST Act) and its Rules. The Court directed the Registrar General of High Court (RG) to file a report on the status of the proposal to set up more of these courts and also gave various other directions including the regular holding of meetings of committees and regular training of the officers appointed under the Act. The Court gave the direction while hearing the petition filed by the Committee for Monitoring and Strengthening SCs/STs in Karnataka (CMASK), represented by Senior Counsel Jayna Kothari.

The Hindu

Should the age of marriage for women be raised to 21?

September 4, 2020

In this discussion published by The Hindu, CLPR Executive Director Jayna Kothari commented that law should declare the child marriages void rather than making it a criminal act.

Bar and Bench

Karnataka HC directs KPSC, State to consider granting extra time of 20 mins per hour to visually impaired students

September 2, 2020

Bar & Bench reported on the High Court of Karnataka’s direction to the KPSC and the State government where they asked authorities to consider granting 20 mins extra per hour to visually impaired students. The Court gave the direction while hearing the petition filed by National Federation of the Blind, represented by Senior Counsel Jayna Kothari

Times of India

Ensure free rice to transgenders without ration cards: High Court to Telangana Government

July 10, 2020

Times of India reported on High Court of Telangana’s direction to the State government where it asked the State government to inform whether it would supply free rice to transgenders and other sections of people who do not have ration cards under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana which promises food grains to even those who do not posses ration cards. The bench gave the order while hearing a PIL filed by Vyjayanti Vasanta Mogli, represented by Sr. Advocate Jayna Kothari.

The New Indian Express

Earmark special COVID-19 wards for transgender community in hospitals: Telangana High Court

July 2, 2020

The New Indian Express reported on High Court of Telangana’s direction to the State government where it asked State government to earmark separate isolation wards for the transgender persons during the ongoing pandemic. The bench was hearing a PIL filed by Vyjayanti Vasanta Mogli, represented by Sr. Advocate Jayna Kothari.

Bar and Bench

Transgender Persons Act, 2019 violates the fundamental rights it seeks to protect: Another challenge mounted in Supreme Court

June 15, 2020

Bar & Bench reported the petition challenging the Transgender Persons Act, 2019 that violates the fundamental right filed by Advocate Anandita Pujari and represented by Senior Counsel Jayna Kothari.

Freedom Gazette

Supreme Court Must Be As Proactive As Before: SC Advocate

June 10, 2020

Senior Advocate & Executive Director at CLPR, Jayna Kothari says Supreme Court must be as proactive as before when interviewed by Freedom Gazette.

The Hindu

Bail protocol, standardisation needed to ease undertrial burden in prisons

June 2, 2020

The Hindu carried a story mentioning CLPR’s study, “Re-imagining bail decision making: An analysis of bail practice in Karnataka and recommendations for reform”. The study emphasizes that bail protocol needs to be standardized and the classification of offenses must be revisited for easing the burden of under-trial prisoners in India.

Bar and Bench

[Coronavirus Lockdown] Process applications filed by transgenders for social security benefits immediately, Karnataka HC to state govt

April 13, 2020

Bar & Bench reported the Karnataka High Court Judgement where CLPR has filed an intervention application on behalf of Ondede and The Center for Study of Social Exclusion at NLSIU to seek relief for the transgender community and SC/ST vulnerable groups during the lock down.

The Quint

Internet Shutdowns need to be challenged- Jayna Kothari, Senior Advocate, High Court of Karnataka

February 20, 2020

The Quint covered a video interview of our Executive Director Jayna Kothari on the issue of internet shutdowns where she argues how internet shutdowns across the country muzzled the freedom of speech and expression of the people and therefore it needs to be challenged.

Hindustan Times

CAA stir spurs demand for copies of Constitution

February 11, 2020

Hindustan Times story mentioned the Constitutional and Civic Citizenship project of CLPR which seeks to enhance public awareness and critical engagement with India’s constitutional tradition.

Bar and Bench

Supreme Court judgments passed in 2019: Discussion held by CLPR

February 5, 2020

Bar and Bench reported the CLPR conference on decisions of Supreme Court in 2019 organized in collaboration with NCS chapter of St. Joseph College.The conference comprised three panel discussions on the topics — strengthening democracy, SC reform and verdicts concerning religion and faith.

The Hindu

Scrutinising the house of justice

February 5, 2020

The Hindu reported the CLPR conference on decisions of Supreme Court in 2019 organized in collaboration with NCS chapter of St. Joseph College.The conference comprised three panel discussions on the topics — strengthening democracy, SC reform and verdicts concerning religion and faith.

Bar and Bench

Tackling Caste Discrimination Through Law: CLPR event conducted at Karnataka HC

February 3, 2020

Bar and Bench reported the CLPR event on learning session for lawyers at the Karnataka High Court on the topic of ‘Tackling Caste Discrimination through Law”.

The interactive seminar had four sessions covering various topics such as The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1989, Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955: How can it be effectively used? Manual Scavenging and the Law, and the Karnataka Devadasi (Prohibition of Dedication) Act, 1982.

The Hindu

‘Constitutional and political history must be compulsory’ says NLSIU vice-chancellor Sudhir Krishnaswamy

October 21, 2019

The new vice-chancellor of NLSIU, Sudhir Krishnaswamy, says ‘Constitutional and political history must be compulsory’ when interviewed by The Hindu.

News Minute

LGBTQ: Time now to look for social equality

September 15, 2019

Deccan Chronicle reported Transform, the 3rd International Conference on Transgender Rights and the Law.

ThePrint

NLSIU is big winner as ConQuest 2019 ends with posers on War & Peace, Raghuram Rajan

September 9, 2019

ThePrint carried a report on the National Finals of ConQuest 2019, India’s Premiere National Quiz on the Indian Constitution, Politics and the Law.

Over 90 North Indian teams battle it out for top prize at ConQuest

August 31, 2019

Rachel John from ThePrint attended and covered the north regional rounds at National Law University, Delhi.

ThePrint

BITS-Pilani is the big winner as ConQuest 2019 wraps up western round with mind-benders

August 25, 2019

ThePrint reported on the West Regional rounds of ConQuest, 2019.

IIT-KGP and NUJS teams qualify for ConQuest finals at eastern round in Kolkata

August 18, 2019

ThePrint reported on eastern regional round of the fourth edition of ConQuest, 2019.

ThePrint

Students quizzed on Indian Constitution, history, politics as fourth edition of ConQuest begins

August 13, 2019

ThePrint’s carried a report on the South Regional Round of ConQuest 2019

Deccan Chronicle

Madras High Court Reprieve for Three Transgenders

June 26, 2019

The Deccan Chronicle reports on a recent judgement by the Madras High Court regarding transgender inclusion in the police force. Addressing three writ petitions represented by CLPR, the case dealt with strict upper-age limits for transgender persons applying for the post of grade II police constable.

Deccan Chronicle

Revealing Success Story of a Transgender

June 25, 2019

The Deccan Chronicle’s Yamuna R. speaks to transgender activist Grace Banu and senior advocate Jayna Kothari regarding transgender rights in India and reservation policies in public employment.

Mongabay

[Book Review] The stories of our roots

June 20, 2019

In a recent interview about their book, Harini Nagendra and Seema Mundoli speak of joined efforts with colleagues from CLPR to “change the narrative of urban ecology by looking at economic growth and development through environment protection.”

Deccan Chronicle

Transgender seeks age relaxation up to 45 years

June 18, 2019

The Deccan Chronicle reports on an ongoing case represented by CLPR, regarding relaxation of age for transgender persons applying for the post of Grade II Police Constable. Quoting Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari who is appearing on behalf of the petitioner Deepika, they note that no reason has been provided for such a strict upper age limit.

Al Jazeera

India’s transgender community celebrates victory, but needs more

May 30, 2019

Al Jazeera’s Chandni Doulatramani provides a detailed profile of Jeeva M., whose case against Karnataka State regarding name change in educational records was represented by CLPR’s senior advocate Jayna Kothari.

The Hindu

Multiple Solutions for a Better Bengaluru

May 18, 2019

The Hindu quotes Sudhir Krishnaswamy on retired bureaucrat V. Balasubramanian’s proposal for a separate Bengaluru Metropolitan Council at the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region level.

Bangalore Mirror

High Court for Gender Rights

May 5, 2019

Reporting for the Bangalore Mirror, Shyam Prasad S covers Justice S. Sujatha’s judgement in the Jeeva M. vs State of Karnataka & Anr. case. Describing it as a “significant trendsetter”, he quotes Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari on similar circumstances in 2013.

Live Law

Enquiry On Sexual Harassment Allegations Against CJI Should Not Proceed In Complainant’s Absence

May 2, 2019

LiveLaw reports on two press statements released by civil society groups regarding the enquiry into sexual harassment allegations against CJI Gogoi. Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari’s name listed among others expressing solidarity with Complainant’s decision to withdraw from case.

Live Mint

Flawed Electoral Roll Inclusion a Likely Reason for Low Voter Turnout in Bengaluru, Chennai

April 19, 2019

Live Mint quotes Sudhir Krishnaswamy in commentary on “abysmal” voter turnout. Points to constituency demarcation and flawed voter roll preparation.

Deccan Herald

‘When it comes to sexual health, docs are a problem’ | Deccan Herald covers CLPR’s SRR Conference

April 16, 2019

Reporting for the Deccan Herald, Akhil Kadidal covered our conference on Sexual and Reproductive Rights in India. In particular, he focused on the right to abortion panel. He interviews Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari and Advocate Meenaz Kakalia.

Radio Active - Cr 90.4 MHz

A Conversation with Trinetra Gummaraju | Radio Active covers our SRR conference

April 13, 2019

Shruti Sharada interviews Trinetra Gummaraju, who will speak at our conference on Sexual and Reproductive Rights conference, for RadioActive Cr 90.4 Mhz. Gummaraju will speak on the LGBTI+ panel.

The Hindu

Conservative nationalism is on the rise: ‘Politics and Society between Elections’

March 30, 2019

The Hindu reports on Azim Premji University and Lokniti’s “Politics and Society between Elections (2017-2019)” survey. The survey found that conservative nationalism is on the rise. Interestingly however, Prof. Sudhir Krishnaswamy explains that there is little evidence to suggests this ideology correlates to electoral behavior.

Deccan Herald

Justice remains elusive: medical negligence

March 23, 2019

Reshma Ravishanker interview Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari for the Deccan Herald on medical negligence. Ms. Kothari explains the legal process for persons seeking to receive compensation for medical negligence.

Devex

‘New principles on the right to public education’ | Devex interviews Jayna Kothari on the Abidjan Principles

March 21, 2019

Sophie Edwards interviewed Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari and other members of the Abidjan Principles Drafting Committee for Devex. The Abidjan Principles serve as a reference-point for States on the right to education. They provide a right to education framework, which defines the responsibilities of both States and private actors.

Radio Active CR 90.4 MHz

Radio Active interviews Jayna Kothari on Child Marriage

March 20, 2019

In Episode 2 of its Ba Baduku series, Radio Active interviews Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari on the various laws prohibiting child marriage. They focus on the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA) and the 2016 Karnataka amendment to the Act.

Governance Now

Constitutional morality is rooted in the constitution: Justice DY Chandrachud

February 12, 2019

Governance Now summarizes Justice DY Chandrachud’s panel at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2019. Justice Chandrachud was in conversation with Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari. They discussed the Constitution, landmark Supreme Court judgments such as the Section 377 one and constitutional morality.

The Times of India

Kala Ghoda 2019 | Justice Chandrachud & Jayna Kothari | ‘If courts are vigilant, liberties will be safe’

February 11, 2019

The Times of India covers the Honourable Justice DY Chandrachud’s panel at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2019. Justice Chandrachud was in conversation with Senior Advocate and CLPR Executive Director Jayna Kothari. They spoke about the value of the Constitution and the role of the Supreme Court in interpreting it.

Live Mint

Live Mint on Kala Ghoda 2019: Justice Chandrachud & Jayna Kothari in conversation

February 7, 2019

In celebrating Kala Ghoda turning 20 this year, Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari describes some of the highlights of this year’s festival, including the panel on the Supreme Court’s Section 377 judgment. The Section 377 panel will feature Honourable Justice DY Chandrachud in conversation with Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari.

The Hindu

Legitimacy of the Basic Structure

February 4, 2019

Suhrith Parthasarathy analyzes the basic structure doctrine, in light of the 103rd Amendment of the Constitution, which introduced reservations for Economically Weaker Sections. He relies on Sudhir Krishnaswamy’s “Democracy and Constitutionalism in India”.

Business Standard

Bitter Bill

January 5, 2019

Nikita Puri describes how the trans community is furious with the new Transgender Persons Bill 2018. She interviews CLPR Executive Director and Senior Counsel, Jayna Kothari for a closer analysis of how the Bill fails the community.

Bloomberg Quint

Why Activists call the Transgender Bill Shameful

December 29, 2018

Erwin Fernandes interviews Jayna Kothari for Bloomberg Quint on The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2018. The Lok Sabha passed the Bill in December 2018. In reaction, the trans community led nation-wide protests, criticising the Bill for failing to protect their interests.

The News Minute

Trans Bill and reservations: Policy brief for trans and intersex persons released

December 22, 2018

In order to take the first step to address the problem of implementing reservation for transgender and intersex persons in education and public employment, the Centre for Law and Policy Research (CLPR released a policy brief. The event, organised by CLPR, held a panel discussion by Senior Advocate and Executive Director of CLPR Jayna Kothari; Director of the Trans Rights Now Collective Grace Banu; and Assistant Professor of Law at National Law University, Delhi, Dr Anup Surendranath.

Prajavani

Transgender Persons do not have Social Security

December 22, 2018

About 50 per cent of the members of the State Gender Welfare Board should be our community. If we have it, we will help the government get the issues we are experiencing. Society should not look at us badly.

Mirror Now

Dignity March: Sexual abuse survivors to cover 10,000 kms to end social stigma

December 21, 2018

Over 5,000 survivors of sexual violence across the country Thursday embarked on a 65-day-long ‘Dignity March’ from the city, which will culminate in New Delhi on February 22, its organisers said. CLPR Managing Director and Senior Advocate Jayna Kothari was present at the launch of the march at Somaiya Ground.

FNF

India – promoting transgender rights

November 27, 2018

Friedrich Neumann Foundation for Freedom shares its views on CLPR’s work on transgender rights. This includes a transgender rights course taught at the National Law School of India University, Bangalore, as well as the Trans Law cell headed by CLPR.

TheLeaflet

End of ‘face value’ in senior designation, towards transparency in legal elevation

November 25, 2018

The Karnataka High Court example amply demonstrates that the new process of senior designation gives confidence to the young lawyers without ‘connections’ in the legal profession. It gives them hope that if they are deserving, no one can take away their opportunity to be one day considered for the senior designation. Conferral of this distinction has been duly democratised

Noted women rights and child rights lawyer Jayna Kothari — who has worked with Jaising in the past — has also been designated as a senior advocate.

Frontline

Differential age of marriage strikes at the root of equality

November 9, 2018

In this interview with Frontline Jayna Kothari shares her thoughts on the issue of uniform marriage age for boys and girls, following a proposal in its favour by the National Human Rights Commission.

CNN

Teenager beheaded in southern India in caste-based violence

November 2, 2018

The beheading of a 13 year old girl in Tamil Nadu is another example of caste based violence perpetuated against women. In this article CNN quotes Jayna Kothari who argues for looking at these crimes in an intersectional way: as caste and gender based violence.

ThePrint

Marriageable age should be uniform for women and men, NHRC tells govt

October 29, 2018

ThePrint’s article discusses NHRC’s recommendation to make the age of marriage uniform for girls and boys as 18. It quotes Jayna Kothari. She argues that there is no logic in also fixing 18 as the marriageable age for men.

Times of India

When I had brought out the issue of casting couch, everyone had denied its existence

October 21, 2018

In the wake of the #MeToo movement that has seen several actors come forward with their stories of sexual harassment and abuse, including those in the Kannada film industry for Rights and Equality (FIRE) want people from the industry to raise their voices. Jayna Kothari, is a member of FIRE’s Internal Complaints Committee.

The News Minute

Refer sexual harassment complaints to our ICC: FIRE tells Kannada film body

October 14, 2018

Film Industry for Rights and Equity (FIRE) was formed 18 months ago by a group of people including actors, directors and technicians, who have been vocal for the need to address sexual harassment women in the industry. FIRE has appealed to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) to refer all sexual harassment complaints they receive to FIRE’s Internal Complaints Committee. Jayna Kothari is on the FIRE’s Internal Complaints Committee.

The Hindu

Order, order

October 13, 2018

This article looks at the judgments of the Supreme Court in Section 377, adultery, and Sabarimala cases. It quotes Jayna Kothari on Akkai Padmashali, transgender rights activist, who was one of the Petitioners in Section 377 case. Jayna says ““Akkai insisted on telling her story”.

Citizen Consumer and Civic Action Group

Rethinking Urbanization and Right to the City

October 2, 2018

Mathew Idiculla was invited to speak at the “Rethinking Urbanization and Right to the City” Conference which was held on October 2nd, 2018 in the context of the World Habitat Day . “In the 150th birth anniversary of Gandhiji, it is only fitting that we talk about local self government, decentralization of governance”, he added while speaking on the 74th Amendment to the Constitution of India, 2018.

ThePrint

Gujarat and Delhi students emerge winners in ConQuest national quiz finals

September 29, 2018

We conducted the South Regional Rounds and National Final Rounds of ConQuest 2018 on 28th September 2018. ThePrint carried a report on these rounds.

CNN

India strikes down sexist adultery law: ‘Husband is not the master of the wife’

September 27, 2018

This article quotes Jayna Kothari on the recent judgment on Adultery. Jayna notes that this decision is this a big victory for women’s status and position within marriage and within families.

ThePrint

ConQuest defending champions continue their winning streak by acing western region round

September 16, 2018

ThePrint’s report on the West regional rounds of ConQuest 2018.

ThePrint

ConQuest 2018 finalists from eastern region were chosen in Kolkata

September 8, 2018

ThePrint carried a report on the East Regional Round of ConQuest 2018.

LiveMint

Dream come true, says transgender community

September 6, 2018

This post records initial response of the community to the Section 377 verdict. It carried Jayna Kothari’s views on what the judgment holds for the transgender community.

Deccan Herald

377 judgement aids fight for transgender rights

September 6, 2018

This is a video response of Jayna Kothari on the Section 377 verdict.
While the transgender community is fighting their own separate legal battle in recognition of their rights, the decriminalisation of homosexuality by the Supreme Court today will aid the fight for transgender rights, says Jayna Kothari.

ThePrint

From suffrage to the right to sleep, India’s youth ask (and answer) the right questions

September 2, 2018

ThePrint carried a piece today on North Regional Rounds of ConQuest: India’s Premiere National Quiz on the Indian Constitution, History and Politics.

ThePrint

Knowing your Constitution has an added incentive – winning ConQuest 2018

August 30, 2018

ThePrint carried a piece today on CLPR’s initiative – ConQuest 2018.

TEDxCMRIT

TRANS-forming Courts | Jayna Kothari

July 24, 2018

“TRANSformation of courts” throws light on the drastic conditions of the transgender community. Jayna feels that it is important that stories of the daily lives and experiences of trans people must be told in the court.In a world full of muffled silences, she made sure their voices were heard. By fighting these cases, she hopes that the courts, the State, public authorities, and society see trans persons not as criminals, but as citizens, with equal constitutional rights. Watch this video to understand the burning need to make our society inclusive of all the marginalised communities.

The Hindu

Fall of Sec. 377 will embolden LGBTQ people: CJI

July 12, 2018

Ms. Jayna Kothari, Executive Director of CLPR, represented Dr. Akkai Padmashali, a trans-rights activist, in Section 377 challenge. Ms. Kothari argued for scrapping Section 377 and cited several state laws which target transgender community and classify them as ‘criminals’. Her arguments were covered by The Hindu.

Business Standard

Amendment to make child marriages void should be introduced soon – Jayna Kothari’s interview with Business Standard

April 2, 2018

Business Standard interviewed Jayna Kothari, Executive Director of CLPR, on the issue of child marriage in India.
Child marriages in India, says a report by UNICEF, have significantly decreased, but the rate of decline remains slow. The Supreme Court has struck down a legal clause that allowed intercourse with underage brides, but at present child marriages still remain valid, a situation that is expected to be addressed soon. Jayna Kothari, Supreme Court advocate and Executive Director of the Centre for Law & Policy Research, Bengaluru, tells Nikita Puri why despite the fall in numbers, there is no room for complacency on child marriages.

The Hindu

Sudhir Krishnaswamy on government school enrollment and RTE

April 1, 2018

The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act 2009 has been constantly criticized. It has often been cited as a reason for poor enrollment in Government schools and loss of Government funds. This article published in The Hindu, takes on those claims by relying on the data from a study conducted by Azim Premji University. Sudhir Krishnaswamy, Managing Trustee of CLPR and Director of the School of Public Policy & Governance Azim Premji University, has been quoted to state that the financial burden on the Government towards reimbursement of private schools is minuscule. He further disputed the link between denial of RTE quota seats in private schools leading up to enrollment in Government schools.

Al Jazeera

UN: 12 million girls married during childhood annually

March 6, 2018

A report by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) released on Tuesday revealed that while there is a decrease in the global percentage of child marriages, more than 150 million additional girls will be married before their 18th birthday by 2030.

Reuters

India’s child marriage numbers drop sharply, driving down global rate: UNICEF

March 6, 2018

UNICEF’s conclusions on India came after comparing data from its 2006 and 2016 health survey that asked women in the 20-24 age group whether they had married before they turned 18. It also took into account child marriage data from the 2011 census.

Hindustan Times

From ‘voidable’, child marriage to turn illegal

March 4, 2018

The Centre is moving ahead with a proposal to amend an existing law so as to make all future child marriages in the country invalid from the outset, according to two senior government officials familiar with the matter who asked not to be identified. Currently, child marriages are valid but can be annulled on request.

The New Indian Express

Differently-abled get Karnataka High Court relief in reservation for LPG distributorship

February 10, 2018

On 10th Feb 2018 the Karnataka High Court stayed all proceedings with respect to the allotment of 238 LPG distributorships in the state by the Indian Oil Corporation. A division bench of acting Chief Justice H G Ramesh and Justice P S Dinesh Kumar stayed the post-notification proceedings after hearing the PIL filed by Karnataka Rajya Vikalachetanara Rakshana Samiti who claimed that no statutory reservation was provided to differently-abled people. Jayna Kothari, counsel of the petitioner, contended that IOC had reserved only 6 positions for the disabled, which amounted to less than 3 percent of the total distributorships, which did not comply with the 5 per cent mandated under Section 37 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

PILnet 2017 Global Forum

Spark Talk: Jayna Kothari

November 17, 2017

Jayna Kothari was invited to speak in PILnet 2017 Global Forum. She shared her motivations behind choosing to work in social justice litigation and her experiences with the Indian courts.

Frontline

‘Extremely positive step for women’s rights’

November 10, 2017

In the organisation Independent Thought’s challenge to the Exception 2 to Section 375 of the IPC before the Supreme Court, Jayna Kothari represented the Child Rights Trust as an intervener. The organisation works in Karnataka against child marriage. Both Justice Lokur and Justice Gupta, in their concurrent judgments reading down the Exception, complimented Jayna Kothari for her contribution and research, which helped in deciding the case.

Deccan Herald

Cell to provide free legal advice to Transgenders

October 10, 2017

The Deccan Herald’s issue dated 12.10.2017 offered an in-depth coverage of the efforts undertaken by the Centre for Law & Policy Research towards empowering the Transgender community by setting up a free weekly legal aid cell for their assistance.

NDTV

Mental Health In India: Toss The Taboo

October 1, 2017

Jayna Kothari was one of the panelists in this episode of ‘We The People’ which discussed mental health in Indian society.

According to the World Health Organisation, India is the most depressed country in the world with 36 per cent of citizens battling depression or other mental health issues. Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people. Adding to the grim picture is the almost negligible size of mental health care sector with just three psychiatrists per million Indians. On this edition of We The People, we ask: Is it time we acknowledged the existence of a looming threat to India’s young demographic in the form of severe mental crises? Can a measly expenditure of 0.06% of the health budget tackle this growing menace?

Times of India

CLPR launches 4 Week Course on Transgender Identity & Laws

September 13, 2017

The Times of India covered CLPR’s course on transgender Identity & the Law. The course consisting of seven sessions was designed by Jayna Kothari, Executive Director of CLPR and introduced at the National Law School of India University, Bangalore on 30.08.2017.

New Indian Express

Legal Aid? What’s that, ask prisoners

July 27, 2017

In our research, we have designed a qualitative study of court observations over a period of 45 days in lower criminal courts chosen randomly in three districts in Karnataka i.e. Bengaluru, Dharwad, and Tumakuru.

Dipavali Hazra

Jayna Kothari on The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016

September 11, 2016

The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016, which was cleared by the Cabinet on 24 August, has…

Asif Kalam

Jayna Kothari on Patient Autonomy in the Mental Health Care Bill, 2013

August 16, 2016

Jayna Kothari is quoted in this Article, which discusses the extent of autonomy an “Advance Directive” provided for by the Mental Healthcare Bill, 2013, will provide to a patient of mental healthcare.

Deccan Herald

Justice Kumar disapproves tendency to destroy Constitution

January 27, 2016

On Republic Day, 2016 the Centre for Law and Policy Research launched the CADIndia website at the Karnataka Judicial Academy, Bangalore followed by a panel discussion on ‘Constituent Assembly Debates in Contemporary Times’.

Deccan Herald

Identify hearing disability at early stage, says US expert

February 15, 2014

Speaking at the seminar, Jayna Kothari, Founder, Centre for Law and Policy Research, Bangalore, said “a number of children with learning disabilities had no avenues of help from the government as their disorders do not come under the ambit of Person’s with Disabilities (PWD) Act, 1995.”

Deccan Herald

Seminar on “Auditory Processing Issues – Identification and Management Strategies for Educators.”

February 15, 2014

Jayna Kothari presented at a seminar on “Auditory Processing Issues – Identification and Management Strategies for Educators” at the Mallya Aditi International School, Bangalore.

DNAIndia

Rethinking Punishment

December 31, 2013

Earlier, in August 2013, some media reports suggested that the Ministry for Women and Child Development was firming up to the view that juveniles in the age bracket of 16-18 years committing heinous crimes should not have the protection of Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000 (JJ Act). This post argues against such proposed move.

Bangalore Mirror

Human trafficking victim has no money for bail bond – Bangalore Mirror

September 21, 2013

The Centre for Law and Policy Research is representing a Bangladeshi national who is a victim of human trafficking and has been made to sign a bond imposing a payment of Rs 25,000 for her release. The imposition of the bond is currently being challenged in the High Court of Karnataka.

The Telegraph

Boon for Suicide Survivors published

September 4, 2013

Jayna Kothari has been cited in Boon for Suicide Survivors published in the Telegraph on September 4, 2013. She gives her opinion on decriminalization of Section 309 of the IPC and its impact on women facing domestic violence.

The Lancet Journal

Mental health bill set to revolutionise care in India

July 27, 2013

CLPR’s Jayna Kothari has been quoted in “Mental Health Bill set to revolutionize care in India“. The Lancet, Vol. 382, Issue 9889, P.296, (July 2013).