NALSAR University of Law has announced an exciting internship opportunity 2026 under its criminal justice initiative, The Square Circle Clinic (formerly Project 39A). This programme offers hands-on experience in criminal law, litigation, research, and public policy, making it ideal for students interested in the Indian criminal justice system.
About the NALSAR University of Law
- Established as one of India’s leading law universities
- Known for excellence in legal education, research, and policy work
- Focuses on interdisciplinary learning and social justice initiatives
- Plays a key role in shaping legal reforms and public discourse in India
The Square Circle Clinic
- A criminal justice initiative working on critical legal issues
- Offices located in New Delhi, Pune, and Nagpur
- Engages in:
- Pro bono criminal defence, especially for death row prisoners
- Research on forensic science, mental health, legal aid, and wrongful convictions
- Public engagement and policy advocacy
Key Internship Areas
1. Litigation
- Legal representation for death row prisoners across India
- Trial-level defence work for undertrial prisoners
- Collaboration with prisons like Yerwada and Nagpur Central Prison
2. Mitigation Investigation
- Preparation of life history reports of prisoners
- Assisting in sentencing hearings
- Supporting capital defence strategies
3. Research Interventions
- Focus on empirical and field-based research
- Key topics include:
- Forensic science
- Criminal justice technology
- Wrongful convictions
- Legal aid systems
- Mental health in criminal law
- Death penalty administration
4. Strategic Communication
- Public awareness campaigns
- Storytelling across digital platforms
- Social media and communication strategy development
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to students enrolled in:
- Law
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Psychology or Psychiatry
- Media and Communications
- Students from other disciplines may apply, but preference is given to the above fields
- Applicants from India and abroad are eligible
Roles and Responsibilities
- Assist in litigation and case preparation
- Contribute to research and policy analysis
- Support outreach and communication initiatives
- Perform administrative tasks
- Work strictly from office locations during working hours (10 AM to 6 PM)
Internship Duration
- Minimum: 4 weeks
- Maximum: 12 weeks
- Full-time internships preferred
- Part-time internships require a minimum commitment of 12 weeks
Location
- Available at offices in:
- New Delhi
- Pune
- Nagpur
- No internship positions available in Hyderabad office
Stipend Details
- Full-time interns: Rs 10,000 per 4 weeks
- Part-time interns: Rs 5,000 per 4 weeks
Application Process
Documents Required
- Updated resume
- Statement of Purpose (maximum 750 words)
- Writing sample on a criminal justice issue (maximum 1000 words)
Important Instructions
- Applications accepted only through the official online form
- Apply at least 2 months in advance
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- No travel or accommodation support provided
Important Guidelines
- Internship is primarily in-person
- Remote internships allowed only in exceptional cases
- The Clinic works for all death row prisoners, irrespective of offence
- Selection depends on availability and organisational needs
