5th Prof. (Dr.) Anil Kumar Thakur Memorial National Debate Competition 2026

About the Department & Debating Society

The Department of Laws, originally established at Lahore in 1889, was re-established at the Panjab University Campus in Chandigarh in 1959. Its alumni include Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, Union Cabinet Ministers, and senior legal luminaries. The Prof. (Dr.) Anil Kumar Thakur Debating Society was established in 2022 in memory of the esteemed academician of Constitutional law, Prof. (Dr.) Anil Kumar Thakur (1976–2021), to foster interdisciplinary research, competitive debate, and public speaking.

Competition Overview & Theme

The 5th edition of the Prof. (Dr.) Anil Kumar Thakur Memorial National Debate Competition centers around the theme: “Special Intensive Revision: Should It Be Done or Not?”

This year’s theme examines the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls—a process undertaken by the Election Commission of India under Article 324 of the Constitution and Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The motion examines arguments surrounding voter list accuracy, administrative overreach, and constitutional guarantees of adult suffrage under Article 326.

Competition Format

• The competition comprises four offline rounds spread over two days: two Preliminary Rounds, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, and Final.
• Preliminary Rounds: 24 teams contest 2 rounds (5 mins/speaker), arguing both sides across rounds.
• Quarter-Finals: Top 8 teams (10 mins/speaker, knockout).
• Semi-Finals: 4 teams (10 mins/speaker, knockout).
• Finals: 2 teams (7 mins/speaker).
• A 3-minute question/rebuttal period per speaker by judges follows each speech.

Eligibility & Team Composition

• Open to bonafide undergraduate students from any discipline across India.
• Teams must consist of exactly two members (single-member teams are disqualified).
• Only one team per university/college/institute is permitted (first-come, first-served basis).
• Students of the Department of Laws, Panjab University, Chandigarh are ineligible to participate.
• Medium of communication is strictly English. Formal attire is mandatory.

Prizes & Awards

• Winners: ₹6,500 Cash + Trophy + Certificate
• Runners-Up: ₹3,500 Cash + Trophy + Certificate
• Best Team: ₹3,500 Cash + Trophy + Certificate
• Best Debater: ₹2,500 Cash + Trophy + Certificate
• Participation Certificates: Provided to all candidates who attend their allocated and final rounds.

Registration Fees

• Early Bird (without accommodation): ₹1,800 per team
• Early Bird (with accommodation): ₹2,100 per team
• Standard / Non-Early Bird (without accommodation): ₹2,100 per team
• Standard / Non-Early Bird (with accommodation): ₹2,700 per team
• Note: Registration fees include breakfast and lunch on both days. Fees are non-refundable.

Important Dates & Timeline

• Early Bird Deadline: 10 October 2026
• Final Registration Deadline: 20 October 2026
• Competition Dates: 30th & 31st October 2026

How to Apply

Interested teams must complete the online registration form. A printed, signed copy of the registration form (sealed by the competent authority) along with the payment receipt must be uploaded and brought in hard copy to the venue on the day of the competition.

For any queries, contact the Student Coordinators:
• Chandini Jaswal: +91 82880 30573
• Durgeish Damini Jaiswal: +91 98054 53866

Official Brochure / Rulebook

📄 Click here to view / download the official PDF brochure