The Legacy of the Life and Work of Lotika Sarkar

Based on a talk by the author, the article seeks to sketch the work and contribution of Professor Lotika Sarkar, the first woman law teacher of the Delhi University. A much sought after teacher, with a progressive outlook, Professor Sarkar mentored several generations of law scholars, teachers and judges. The article speaks of Professor Sarkar’s seminal contribution as member of the Committee on the Status of Women in India. Her chapter on ‘women and the law’ formed a significant part of the Committee’s 1975 report. Professor Sarkar joined three other eminent law teachers in penning an Open Letter to the Chief Justice of India, on September 16, 1979, in the wake of the Tukaram case. This letter paved the way for significant changes in law relating to custodial rape. The issues that Professor Sarkar worked on are of contemporary relevance to any serious legal scholar looking for a reference point, and the right questions to ask.