International Law and Global Security: RRU Moot Triumph
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Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), an Institution of National Importance under India’s Ministry of Home Affairs, successfully concluded its 2nd International Moot Court Competition (RIMC) 2025 in Gandhinagar from 14–16 November 2025. The theme, “International Law and Global Security,” brought together 24 teams (72 participants) from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Kenya. This gathering highlighted RRU’s growing role on the global stage in law, security, and strategic education.
On the first day, Professor (Dr) Bimal N. Patel, Vice Chancellor of RRU, welcomed the dignitaries and participants. The formal inauguration was done by Hon’ble Justice Bela M. Trivedi, former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, who spoke about evolving global threats — cyber warfare, terrorism, disinformation, climate-driven displacement and cross-border crime. She underscored how international law has to adapt to protect peace and stability. Dr Patel, himself a member of India’s National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) and a former member of the United Nations International Law Commission, reminded everyone that mooting often mirrors real-world legal tensions.
Dr Niharika Raizada, Director-in-Charge of RRU’s School of Criminal Law and Military Law (SCLML), welcomed all participants and dignitaries. She emphasised SCLML’s mission to train legal professionals who are ethical, research-driven, and globally aware.
The preliminary rounds held on Day 1 set a serious academic tone, with teams debating complex issues drawn from real global security challenges.
On the second day, teams competed in the quarter-finals and semi-finals. Their arguments showed strong legal thinking and advocacy. There were two keynote lectures: one by Mr Sanitya Kalika, a Nepali international lawyer and former Assistant Professor at O.P. Jindal Global University, on “Non-Compliance with Judgments of International Courts”; the other by Mr Harsh Mahaseth, Associate Professor of Law at Jindal Global University, on “Admissibility of Claims When a State Represents Corporations Before the ICJ.” These topics reflect real debates in international law — for example, how states may support corporations in international disputes, and how international court rulings are enforced (or not).
In the evening, participants enjoyed a cultural event, including a performance by the Gujarat Police Band celebrating the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. For many international guests, it was a memorable moment of Indian heritage and music.
The final day featured more distinguished speakers. Among them were Professor Chinnasamy Jayaraj, former Secretary-General of the Indian Society of International Law, and Dr Shikhar Ranjan, Director of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Organisation (AALCO). Professor Jayaraj delivered a keynote on “International Space Law and Global Security,” particularly exploring the prohibition of nuclear weapons in space — a cutting-edge and increasingly urgent subject in global governance.
In the moot final, the top teams argued with clarity and poise. In his valedictory address, Professor Patel praised their hard work and urged them to carry forward the responsibility of building a rules-based global order. Shri Udaya Kumar, Judicial Member of the Karnataka State Administrative Tribunal, applauded RRU’s role in preparing disciplined, research-based lawyers who can serve in the judiciary and public service. He noted how international law is now deeply linked with domestic governance and accountability.
Dr Shikhar Ranjan called for greater representation of the Global South in international courts and encouraged young legal professionals to aim for careers in litigation and diplomacy on the world stage. The event also marked the launch of the RRU–NSAB Investment Arbitration Database, a significant new resource for research in international law.
In the competition’s outcome, the Army Institute of Law, Mohali, won first place, and the United World School of Law, Karnavati University, became the runners-up. The winning team earned internships at RRU’s Centre for International Law, giving them exposure to ongoing research at bodies such as the UN International Law Commission.
In closing, Ms V. Jayshree, Faculty Convener of RIMC 2025, announced that the 3rd RRU International Moot Court Competition is scheduled for 9-11 October 2026. She expressed gratitude to the university leadership, faculty, staff, and students who made the event a success. The three-day competition not only reaffirmed RRU’s commitment to legal education but also strengthened its global footprint in national security, law, policing, and governance.
