Law school gives us knowledge, but mentors give us direction.
Recently, I had the opportunity to work on a Public Interest Litigation before the Delhi High Court concerning accessibility barriers in the DDA Jan Sadharan Awaas Yojana. The petition raised an important issue: welfare housing schemes meant for economically weaker sections, senior citizens, and other vulnerable groups should not become inaccessible merely because the process is digital and the scheme information is available only in English.
While working on the petition, I was fortunate to receive guidance from my respected professor and mentor, Adv. Saju Jakob (Payyappilly), who is also an accomplished advocate. Despite his demanding schedule, he took the time late at night to carefully review my draft, suggest crucial corrections, and help shape it into a proper PIL. His insights on constitutional framing and public law litigation were invaluable.
The Delhi High Court was pleased to take the concerns into consideration. The Court recorded the undertaking of the DDA that all scheme-related documents and circulars would also be published in Hindi, and further directed the authority to establish a dedicated helpdesk/kiosk for senior citizens and persons with disabilities to assist them in the application process.
What made this experience particularly meaningful was that it was my very first experience of drafting and arguing a PIL. The Hon’ble Court, while allowing the PIL, issued directions to the concerned authority.
I will always remain thankful to my mentor and professor, Adv. Saju Jakob, who is an Advocate before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, a Solicitor in the UK, a European Lawyer registered with the Bar Council of Germany, and a lecturer on Private International Law, International Commercial Contracts, and International Arbitration.
For me, this experience reaffirmed the importance of mentorship in the legal profession. Behind every young lawyer trying to take initiative, there is often a teacher who quietly guides, refines, and encourages.
Grateful to my professor for his time, guidance, and faith.
By – Adv. Gulshan Maurya
