Renowned Constitutional Law Scholar and Former WBNUJS VC Mahendra Pal Singh Passes Away at 85
Kolkata: Mahendra Pal Singh, a distinguished figure in the field of constitutional law and former vice-chancellor of the West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), passed away on Saturday. He was 85 years old.
A Visionary Leader in Legal Education
Singh served as the vice-chancellor of WBNUJS from 2006 to 2011, a period during which he played a pivotal role in elevating the institution to new heights of national and international recognition. According to a condolence message on the university website, "Prof Singh was a true visionary under whose towering leadership NUJS reached unprecedented heights of fame and recognition." His tenure marked a significant transformation, with the university becoming renowned for producing cutting-edge research and scholarship.
Transforming WBNUJS into a Research Powerhouse
Under Singh's guidance, WBNUJS underwent a strategic shift from a teaching-focused institution to a premier research hub. Shameek Sen, Dean of alumni affairs, outreach and communication, highlighted this achievement, stating, "He was the mentor and founder of the premier NUJS law journal, the NUJS Law Review, which stands as a testament to his scholastic foresightedness." This journal has become a key platform for legal scholarship, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence.
Fostering Global Partnerships and Academic Growth
Singh's leadership extended beyond national borders, as he actively fostered international collaborations. He brought researchers from countries like Germany to WBNUJS and recruited world-class scholars and faculty members, including notable names such as Shamnad Basheer and Sudhir Krishnaswamy. Sen added, "Throughout his life, he was a motivator, thinker, and academic mentor, embodying empathy and democratic ethos." His efforts significantly enriched the university's academic environment and global standing.
Legacy and Tributes from the Academic Community
Nandimath Omprakash V, the current vice-chancellor of WBNUJS, paid tribute to Singh, describing him as "one of the greatest and renowned legal academicians globally known." He emphasized that Singh re-emphasized the research culture at NUJS, building on foundations laid by previous leaders like Prof Chimni, and solidified WBNUJS's reputation as a top National Law University in India.
The university community remembers Singh not only for his professional contributions but also for his enduring relationship with the institution, which remained strong even after he demitted office. His passing is mourned as a terrible loss to the legal and academic worlds, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and scholarly dedication.
