More GLC alumni come forward to defend GLC Law and Lore podcast

Illustrious former students of Government Law College (GLC), Mumbai have expressed their views on a public notice issued by the administration prohibiting alumni from using the abbreviation 'GLC' in their podcast called GLC Law and Lore.

After Justice GS Patel's letter slammed the Principal for threatening to take action against the students, former Supreme Court judge Justice BN Srikrishna and Senior Advocate Sharan Jagtiani have weighed in on the issue.

Justice Srikrishna said that the objection to the podcast utilising the GLC abbreviation is misconceived. When asked if students and alumni should be allowed to use their alma mater's name, he said,

"Yes, as long as there is no objectionable content that is untrue and misrepresentative. The institution should monitor only what is not true and allow free scope for free speech which is a fundamental right."

Speaking on whether the threat of legal action was an appropriate response from the institute, he said,

"No, not at all. At best, there could be advisory meetings to point out what really is the problem."

Jagtiani said,

"I absolutely think the objection should not have been raised. Before looking at this legally in the sense of the ‘GLC’ mark etc…look at it in an ordinary, common person's way. The content is laudable and very meaningful, not just for the GLC community, but lawyers and students in general. The podcast is being done elegantly and respectfully. Students should be encouraged with such ventures. All of this reflects well on GLC, so what’s the objection for?"

He went on to comment on the legality of using the GLC name,

"It depends on how the reference to GLC is being made. “GLC: Law and Lore” is the title of the YouTube podcast and channel. The reference to GLC is more so in the descriptive sense of describing the nature of the podcast and the content. If GLC is being used descriptively, then no one can have an objection. Suppose I started a talk show called “Stars of GLC” and interviewed luminaries. Can I be told you can’t use “GLC”? Surely not. The title here is nothing but the meaning of the content. It’s about law and the lore of those GLC alumnus. Putting these excessive curbs also impacts persons free expression, which is not right."

"If there is a suggestion that the Channel is being hosted by GLC or if the content is inappropriate and such that it dilutes or embarrasses the GLC institutions standing, please exercise oversight. In that situation all associated with GLC will view it differently. That’s not the case here. Absent that, people have the right use and make reference to GLC or any institutions name in their message and tag line. In that sense it is publici juris," he added.

Despite the institution's threats, Jagtiani feels that the issue should be resolved amicably.

"The students who have started this initiative are wonderful and thoughtful and intelligent. They do not deserve to be in this spotlight. They should be spoken of for the good initiative they have taken. This will and should be resolved without any litigation."

Story to be updated.