A law student’s aspirations took a sharp turn when the Punjab and Haryana High Court upheld Panjab University’s decision to bar him from exams for two years after he was caught cheating during a December 2023 “Law of Contract” paper.
The student, pursuing a BA LL.B., was found with handwritten notes during the exam, leading to disciplinary action under university regulations. Despite his plea for leniency, arguing the penalty would derail his career, the court stood firm, emphasizing the sanctity of the legal profession.
Justice Jasgurpreet Singh Puri dismissed the student’s petition, stating, “The legal profession is a noble calling governed by ethics. As a future lawyer, the petitioner must uphold these standards.”
The court cited the university’s adherence to its rules, which mandate a two-year disqualification for such infractions, and concluded there was no justification to reduce the punishment.
This case serves as a stern reminder of the ethical responsibilities expected from those aspiring to enter the legal field.
