About NALSAR
NALSAR (National Academy of Legal Studies and Research) in Hyderabad is one of India’s premier law universities. Established in 1998, it consistently ranks among the top three law schools nationwide by the NIRF and is heavily sought after for its rigorous B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) program via the CLAT exam.
About The Square Circle Clinic, NALSAR
The Square Circle Clinic, housed at NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, is a premier criminal justice and human rights initiative. Founded in April 2025 by the team that formerly ran Project 39A, the clinic operates offices in Delhi, Pune, Nagpur, and Hyderabad. It provides pro bono representation for death row and undertrial prisoners and conducts research on mental health, forensics, and legal aid.
About the Fellowship
The Criminal Justice Student Fellowship 2026–2027 is a 12-month intensive programme through which Fellows will work closely with the Clinic’s litigation, mitigation, research, and communications teams. The programme provides practical exposure to the functioning of a defence-oriented criminal justice organisation while offering meaningful insight into the complexities of India’s criminal justice system.
In addition to assisting the Clinic’s teams, Fellows will undertake in-depth research, engage in strategic thinking on criminal justice issues, and complete independent research projects under the guidance of members of the Clinic.
Eligibility
The Fellowship is open to:
- Students in the III, IV, or V year of the integrated 5-year B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) programme during the academic year 2026–2027.
- Students in the II or III year of the 3-year LL.B. programme during the academic year 2026–2027.
Responsibilities
- Assist the Clinic’s litigation, mitigation, research, and communications teams.
- Contribute to research and strategic work on criminal justice issues.
- Undertake independent research under the guidance of the Clinic’s team members.
- Gain practical exposure to the functioning of a defence-oriented criminal justice organisation.
Stipend
₹60,000 upon the successful completion of the Fellowship.
Duration
12 months
No of Seats
3
Last Date to Apply
5:00 PM, 31 July 2026
Application Procedure
Interested and eligible candidates may submit their application through the official application form before the deadline.
Click Here To Apply.
The official notification is here.