Calcutta University Overhauls Law Admissions with Centralised System

In a major policy shift, Calcutta University (CU) has taken full control of admissions to its affiliated law colleges, introducing a centralised and computer-based system aimed at eliminating malpractice and restoring credibility to the BA LLB intake process.

The decision comes in the aftermath of a sexual assault incident at a law college in south Kolkata that brought to light widespread irregularities in the earlier admission method. Students alleged that several institutions, including those receiving government support, had been admitting candidates outside the official merit list — sometimes in exchange for money.

The old pen-and-paper entrance exams were also mired in controversy, with claims that financial and political influence determined outcomes. The Bar Council of India had previously raised concerns about inconsistencies in CU’s law programme renewals, further highlighting the need for reform.

A Fresh Start

To address these issues, CU has introduced a centralised admission process managed from its Rajabazar Science College campus, replacing the earlier system run by the university’s law department at Hazra. In a first for the university, the Hazra department has been completely removed from the admissions process to ensure neutrality.

The university also shifted to a computer-based entrance examination (CBT), conducted through an external agency on October 14. A provisional merit list featuring more than 3,800 applicants was released earlier this week, and candidates have been given a window to report any discrepancies before finalisation.

Full Transparency Promised

CU has publicly released a seat matrix detailing 2,170 seats across 14 affiliated law colleges. According to interim Vice-Chancellor Santa Datta De, this new system leaves “no scope for doubt or manipulation” as every step — from exam to seat allotment — is now documented online.

Officials involved in the process said the new structure prevents colleges from making independent admissions, a loophole that previously allowed students with lower ranks to enter reputed colleges. “All upgradation and mop-up rounds will be handled centrally. Colleges will no longer decide admissions on their own,” one senior university source confirmed.

Looking Ahead

The university plans to begin online counselling sessions right after the Diwali vacation, with first-semester classes scheduled to commence in the first week of November.

This marks the most significant reform in CU’s law admissions since the programme was introduced in 1909 and formalised into a full-time department in 1983 — an overhaul many believe was long overdue.