Shashikumar Mohta, a 66-year-old stock market professional from Gujarat, has triumphed over a 24-year legal battle to secure admission into Gujarat University’s DT Law College for the LLB course.
The journey began in 2000 when Mohta applied for the three-year LLB programme at DT Law College but was denied admission. The college cited Gujarat University’s requirement of 15 years of prior education — 12 years of schooling and 3 years of graduation. Mohta, however, had only completed 14 years of academic education, which led to his rejection.
Unwilling to accept the decision, Mohta filed a legal challenge in 2001, initiating a prolonged battle in the courts. Despite numerous delays, his determination never faltered.
Mohta, born and raised in Kolkata, had completed 11 years of school followed by a three-year BCom degree — a common educational structure in West Bengal at the time. However, when he moved to Gujarat in 1979, his credentials were scrutinised under Gujarat University’s stricter requirements. Ironically, he had previously been admitted to Nav Gujarat College in 1987-88 with the same qualifications, though unforeseen circumstances had prevented him from completing his education there.
In his legal appeal, Mohta argued that his educational background met the standards for the LLB programme. The court ultimately agreed, ruling that his qualifications were valid. The judgment criticised the rigid application of the 15-year rule, stating that technicalities such as the “12+3” formula should not be grounds for denial.
After two decades of perseverance, the court not only granted Mohta admission but also underscored the importance of a more flexible approach to educational criteria. The judgment ensures that Mohta can join DT Law College in the upcoming academic term, provided he adheres to all institutional rules and covers the legal expenses incurred during the case.
Also Read: Militant Groups in Manipur Using Starlink, Devices Seized
