National Essay Writing Competition by Literary and Debating Society, MNLU Mumbai [Cash Prizes of Rs. 10k]: Register by July 25

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About MNLU

Maharashtra National Law University Mumbai, established under the Maharashtra National Law University Act 2014 on 20th March 2014, is one of the premier National Law Universities in India.

The Act envisaged to establish a National Law University in Maharashtra to impart advanced legal education and promote society-oriented research in legal studies for the advancement of societal life of the people in the country.

About LDS

The Literary and Debating Society (LDS), is a dynamic community of students which lies at the heart of MNLU’s intellectual landscape. Through engaging book clubs and spirited debates, LDS ignites a passion for literature and critical thinking among students. Committed to inclusivity, the society fosters an environment where diverse voices are celebrated and respected.

About Essay Writing Competition

Literature serves as a mirror to society, reflecting its complexities, conflicts, and transformations. Through the course of history literature has had a profound impact on the mechanics of life, impacting lifestyle, religion, morals and challenging them all.

The theme underscores the profound relationship between the written word and the lived experiences of individuals and communities. This theme encapsulates the idea that literature is not merely a vessel for storytelling but a powerful medium that shapes, interrogates, and reimagines reality. Through the exploration of this theme, we delve into how literature can illuminate ethical dilemmas, influence social norms, and provoke critical discussions on foundational societal principles.

The contours of this theme are vast and varied, encompassing multiple dimensions where literature intersects with the contours of real life. From the portrayal of ethical conflicts in legal narratives to the depiction of constitutional debates and the role of literature in driving social change, this theme encourages a comprehensive examination of how literature engages with and impacts real-world issues.

It invites writers to explore the moral responsibilities of legal professionals, the importance of constitutional values in society, and the transformative power of literary works in challenging injustices and inspiring reforms.

Theme

Legal Narratives: Fictional Journeys through Ethical Landscapes
Legal ethics in literary fiction explores the moral quandaries and ethical challenges faced by legal professionals. It examines how authors portray the struggle for justice, the conflicts between personal values and professional duties, and the impact of legal decisions on individuals and society. These narratives often explore the tension between personal morality and professional duty, highlighting how lawyers and judges navigate the intricacies of justice. Through characters and plots, literature examines issues such as the pursuit of truth, the temptations of corruption, and the burdens of defending the guilty. Legal thrillers offer nuanced portrayals of the legal system, emphasizing the human element within the rigid framework of law. These stories prompt readers to consider the ethical responsibilities of those in the legal profession and the impact of their decisions on society. By engaging with these themes, literary fiction serves as a vital tool for reflecting on the principles of justice, fairness, and moral integrity.
Stories of Change: Literature as a Force for Social Progress
Literature has long been a powerful catalyst for social change, challenging societal norms and inspiring movements for justice and equality. This subtheme examines how literary works have sparked social movements, influenced public opinion, and led to tangible changes in society. Through compelling narratives and vivid characters, literary works can highlight injustices, mobilize public opinion, and spark activism. Books like Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” and Maya Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” have played pivotal roles in environmental and civil rights movements, respectively. These stories resonate with readers, fostering empathy and raising awareness about critical issues. By presenting alternative visions of society, literature can inspire individuals to advocate for change and envision a better world. The transformative power of literature lies in its ability to connect emotionally with readers,
making abstract social issues personal and immediate. As a result, literature not only reflects
societal changes but also actively contributes to shaping and driving them forward.
Words of Justice: Literary Engagements with Constitutional Principles and Debates
This subtheme delves into how literature reflects, critiques, and influences constitutional
principles and debates. It highlights the ways in which literary works engage with issues such as
freedom, equality, and justice, often serving as a commentary on constitutional developments
and societal values. Through storytelling, authors bring abstract constitutional ideas to life,
making them accessible and relatable to readers. Literary works serve as potent commentaries on
government power, individual rights, and societal structures. These narratives often highlight the
fragility of constitutional principles under oppressive regimes, prompting readers to reflect on
the importance of protecting democratic values. By dramatizing constitutional debates, literature encourages critical thinking about current legal and political issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the principles that underpin society. Such literary works not only entertain but also educate, offering insights into the ongoing dialogue between law, politics, and human rights.

General Guidelines

The Registration for the competition shall be done only via the form attached at the end of the post. Once participants have registered for the event, the submission link will be shared with the registered email IDs.
Co-authorship is permitted but restricted to a maximum of two individuals per essay.

Formatting Guidelines

All the entries must be formatted in Times New Roman, Font Size 12, and Line spacing 1.5.
All entries should contain footnote citations formatted in Times New Roman, Font Size 10 and Single Line spacing.
The essay should be accompanied with a 200 word abstract which will not be counted towards the word limit. The word limit, inclusive of footnotes, shall be 4000 words.
Footnotes must follow the citation system specified in Harvard Blue Book, 20 Edition.

Fee

Single Author – Rs. 300
Co-authorship – Rs. 500

Submission Guidelines

The paper must be the original and unpublished work of the author and should not be in consideration for publication or in a contest elsewhere and must be related to one/more theme(s)/sub-theme(s).
All manuscripts must be submitted only via the form sent on their registered email. The name of the file shall be the title of the essay.
Manuscripts sent via email will not be accepted. All submissions are to be made in .docx format.
Author shall not disclose any information regarding the identity, including, but not limited to name, institutional assistance, professional details, etc., within the body of the manuscript. Non-adherence of this rule will lead to immediate disqualification.
All essays would be checked for similarity and those with similarity index more than 10% would be liable for rejection. (Use of AI of any form is strictly prohibited.)
In case of any conflicts, the LDS, MNLU Mumbai shall be the final authority on the guidelines.