SC Issues Notice On PIL Seeking Compulsory Legal Education And Self-Defence Training In Schools

The Supreme Court today issued notice to the government on a Public Interest Litigation seeking compulsory legal education and self-defence training in schools.

A two-Judge Bench comprising Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K.V. Vishwanathan issued notice to the Union Government, returnable in four weeks.

The PIL filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, says that integration of legal education and self-defence training could play a crucial role in preventing delinquency and protecting children from violence. “Making these subjects mandatory in schools can significantly enhance their safety and wellbeing.”

The petition, filed by Advocate Geeta Rani and drafted by Advocate Reepak Kansal, says it is essential for every citizen of the country to understand the law of the land in order to “assert and protect” their fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. In the absence of legal knowledge, an individual “may struggle to fully comprehend or exercise their rights," it argues.

It notes that the Central Board of Secondary Education introduced legal studies as a subject in 2013, but only as an option for students of classes 11 and 12 and contends that compulsorily imparting of legal education in schools “would enhance understanding of rights, helping children avoid illegal activities and seek assistance when needed.” It also notes that a Private Members' Bill was introduced in the Parliament in 2019 by Member of Parliament Sudhir Gupta titled 'The Compulsory Teaching of Legal Education in Educational Institutions Bill.'

In defence of inclusion of self-defence training, the Petitioner has argued that in several incidents, minor victims could not defend themselves due to lack of self-defence skills and that such training could be effective in reducing crimes against minors, especially minor females. This would be in alignment with the Union Government's Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign and without self-defence programs, this slogan "cannot be fully realised," the Petition submitted.

“It would also empower students, especially girls, by teaching them to protect themselves and boosting their confidence. It would increase awareness and encourage reporting of abuse, improving overall protection.” says the petition.

Cause Title: Geeta Rani v. Union of India [W.P.(C) 744/2024 PIL-W]