History of NALSAR

Established on 5th July 1998 under the Andhra Pradesh Act 34 of 1998, NALSAR University of Law is a leading institution in India.  With a vision to empower young minds through a humanistic approach and knowledge-based interventions, it focuses on constitutionalism, rule of law, and social justice for marginalized communities.

Inaugration of the NALSAR University in July 1998

Explore key moments, milestones, and memories that shaped NALSAR University of Law’s legacy. This visual slider showcases the people, events, and infrastructure that contributed to our growth and commitment to legal education and social justice.

1995 – Vision and Foundation Blueprint

In 1995, following recommendations by the XIV Law Commission Report and a committee led by Justice A.M. Ahmadi, the Government of Andhra Pradesh resolved to establish law universities.
The National Society for Promotion and Advancement of Legal Studies and Research, including eminent jurists like Justice Prabha Shankar Mishra and Justice Y. Bhasker Rao, drafted the blueprint.
With the efforts of Justice Umesh Chandra Banerjee, this vision became reality, leading to the establishment of NALSAR.

Inauguration and Leadership Setup

Prof. Ranbir Singh, the first Director (later Vice-Chancellor), played a key role in shaping the academic and administrative framework, supported by a dedicated initial faculty team.
Early faculty meetings focused on curriculum development, student selection, and establishing university governance, ensuring that NALSAR’s vision was translated into actionable programs.

Orientation of the First Batch

The inaugural B.A.LL.B (Hons.) batch was welcomed during the Orientation Ceremony on 30th November 1998, and academic classes commenced on 1st December 1998.
The first batch set the tone for NALSAR’s values of excellence, discipline, and social responsibility, laying the foundation for the university’s academic culture.

Prof. (Dr.) Ranbir Singh, Director addressing the first batch students on the Orientation Day-30-11-1998 and First Batch of students 1998-1999.

Land Allotted & Foundation Laying

The state government of Andhra Pradesh allocated 50 acres of land at Shamirpet to serve as NALSAR’s permanent campus, reflecting its strong commitment to advancing legal education in India.
The foundation for the new campus was laid in October 1999, marking the formal start of construction for an institution designed to combine academic excellence with social justice focus.

Construction & Transition to Permanent Campus

Within 24 months, the first phase of infrastructure was completed, featuring: Administrative Block, Dining Hall, Boys’ and Girls’ Residential Halls, Faculty and Staff Quarters, Guest House and Director’s Residence

In mid-July 2000, NALSAR shifted its faculty and first three batches of students to the newly built Shamirpet campus, moving away from the initial temporary setup at Barkatpura.

The transition empowered the university to expand academic programs, improve residential life, and offer a unique learning experience in a well-designed, green campus.

Under-construction campus infrastructure in early 2000

Introduction of Credit-Based Elective System

In 2012, under the leadership of Prof. Faizan Mustafa, NALSAR became the first Indian law university to introduce a credit-based elective system.

This system allowed students to choose electives from diverse fields.

It encouraged critical thinking and research-led learning, setting a national benchmark in legal education innovation.

2020 – Gender-Inclusive Policies Implementation

In 2020, NALSAR took a bold step toward inclusivity by implementing India’s first gender-neutral policies in a law university.
Key initiatives included: Gender-neutral restrooms, Gender-neutral dormitories, Recognition of self-affirmed gender identity in administration.

These measures reflected NALSAR’s strong commitment to constitutional values of equality and social justice, providing a safe and inclusive space for all students.