The Literary and Debating Society (LDS) at MNLU Mumbai is thrilled to announce the 2nd
edition of our flagship National Essay Writing Competition in collaboration with Association
for Democratic reforms & Public Concern Governance Trust. We're once again providing a
platform for you to showcase your intellect and creativity. This edition will feature a diverse
and inclusive range of topics under the umbrella of governance and civic duties reflecting
contemporary topics and discourses.
ABOUT MNLU MUMBAI
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 ASSOCIATION FOR DEMOCRATIC REFORMS (ADR)
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) is a pioneering non-partisan, non-profit
organization in India, established in 1999 by professors from the Indian Institute of
Management (IIM) Ahmedabad. ADR's mission is to improve governance and strengthen
democracy through electoral and political reforms, focusing on transparency, accountability,
and decriminalization of politics. Its landmark achievement was a Supreme Court ruling in
2002-03, which made it mandatory for all election candidates to disclose their criminal,
financial, and educational backgrounds, empowering voters with critical information.
ABOUT PUBLIC CONCERN FOR GOVERNANCE TRUST (PCGT)
Public Concern for Governance Trust (PCGT)was founded by Padma Bhushan Shri J. F.
Ribeiro (IPS Retd.), Dr. R. K. Anand, an eminent paediatrician and former Medical Director
of Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai, and the late Shri B. G. Deshmukh (IAS Retd.), in 20002. the
Public Concern for Governance Trust (PCGT) is a non-profit organization committed to
promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance. Under the leadership of
Mr. D. Sivanandhan, former Mumbai Police Commissioner, PCGT plays a pivotal role in
policy advocacy, civic engagement, and anti-corruption initiatives.
ABOUT THE EVENT
To offer individuals a chance to express their intellect and originality on significant
contemporary issues, LDS is conducting a nationwide essay writing competition. The themes
span a wide and inclusive spectrum of current discussions. This initiative aims to stimulate
meaningful conversation, spark fresh ideas, and promote collective engagement, while also
empowering participants to articulate their thoughts and sharpen their writing prowess.
THEME — ‘CITIZENS FIRST: DEPOLITISATION OF DEVELOPMENT & POLITICAL ACCOUNTABILITY’
Topic 1: Decriminalization of Indian Politics
Topic 2: Expenditure on Election Campaigns
Topic 3: Functioning of Political Parties
REGISTRATION GUIDELINES
The Registration for the competition shall be done only via this link. Once participants have
registered for the event, the submission link will be shared with the registered email IDs.
After the registration, the submission link shall be active till the 15 th of July, 2025 [11:
59 PM] For submissions by the participants.
TIMELINE
Registration Deadline: June 30th , 2025
Submission Deadline: July 15th , 2025
Result Declaration: First week of August tentatively
REGISTRATION FEE
Single author: Rs. 300
Two authors: Rs. 500
PRIZES
Winner: Cash Prize of Rs. 5000 and a free Manupatra Academy Course of choice
1st Runners-up: Cash Prize of Rs. 3000 and a 75% discount on any one Manupatra
Academy Course.
2nd Runners-up: Cash Prize of Rs. 2000 and a 50% discount on any one Manupatra
Academy Course
Top performers shall be eligible for an internship opportunity at Public Concern for
Governance Trust (PCGT)
Top 10 essays shall receive an Online Certificate of Merit
Top 5 Essays shall be considered for publication by Association for Democratic Reforms
All Participants who submit their essay before the submission deadline will also receive
an online certificate of participation. Additionally, all participants can avail a 15%
discount on any one course from Manupatra Academy.
IMPORTANT LINKS
Click here to Register – LINK
Click here to access the Payment Form – LINK
Click here to access Brochure and Other Resources – LINK
CONTACT US: For any further information or clarification, feel free to reach out at
mnlumlds.events@mnlumumbai.edu.in.