Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Prayagraj marked a significant academic milestone on 21st February, 2026, with the institution of the “Justice B.L. Hansaria Memorial Gold Medal” for the overall topper of the B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) programme. The medal has been established in honour of Hon’ble Justice B.L. Hansaria, former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, in recognition of his enduring contribution to the Indian judiciary.
The institution of the Gold Medal was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Dr. Rajendra Prasad National Law University, Prayagraj and Mr. Vijay Hansaria, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India. The Memorandum signifies a meaningful collaboration aimed at strengthening academic traditions and promoting excellence in legal education.
The award seeks to recognise sustained academic distinction across the duration of the degree programme and to encourage intellectual rigour, consistency, and scholarly commitment among students and will be awarded to the student securing the highest overall academic performance in the B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) programme.
Reflecting on Justice B.L. Hansaria’s Legacy
On this occasion, Mr. Akshat Hansaria, son of Mr. Vijay Hansaria and grandson of late Justice B.L. Hansaria reflected upon the legacy of Hon’ble Justice B.L. Hansaria and emphasised the importance of academic discipline and integrity in the making of a legal professional. He said, “Justice Hansaria believed that the purpose of law is not fulfilled until its benefits reach the poorest and most vulnerable. He often spoke of legal aid not as generosity, but as an obligation. He believed that a system that denies justice to even one person because they cannot afford a lawyer is a system that needs to be re‑examined.”
He said that the Gold medal is not only a tribute to my grandfather’s life it is an invitation. An invitation to embody the ideals he stood for: integrity without arrogance, knowledge with compassion, and service without expectation of reward.” By instituting the medal, he expressed his intention to support meritorious students and to strengthen the culture of academic distinction within the University.
Vice-Chancellor’s Remarks on Academic Excellence
Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Senior Professor Dr. Usha Tandon, observed that the institution of the medal reflects the University’s unwavering commitment to recognising academic merit and nurturing future leaders in the legal profession. She emphasised, “such initiatives not only honour the legacy of eminent jurists but also inspire students to pursue excellence with dedication, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility towards the constitutional and legal framework of the nation.”
A Lasting Academic Legacy
The institution of the Justice B.L. Hansaria Memorial Gold Medal represents a lasting academic legacy within the University. It reaffirms the institution’s commitment to recognising merit, encouraging sustained scholarly achievement, and honouring contributions to the administration of justice through meaningful academic initiatives.
