- Pragya Samal, a 26-year-old law researcher, experienced a momentous occasion on March 13th, as she was honored by justices of the Supreme Court for her remarkable achievements.
- Pragya is the daughter of Ajay Kumar Samal, a cook who has served on the Supreme Court roster for nearly four decades.
- Pragya was lauded for securing admissions, along with scholarships, to prestigious law schools in the United States, including Ivy League institutions.
- In a heartwarming gesture, CJI D.Y. Chandrachud and other justices gathered at the judges’ lounge before commencing their day’s work to celebrate Pragya’s accomplishments.
- After graduating in law in 2021, she worked as a clerk with a sitting Supreme Court justice before joining the Supreme Court’s Centre for Research and Planning (CRP) in February 2023.
Pragya Samal, a 26-year-old law researcher, experienced a momentous occasion on March 13th, as she was honored by justices of the Supreme Court for her remarkable achievements. The daughter of Ajay Kumar Samal, a cook who has served on the Supreme Court roster for nearly four decades, Pragya was lauded for securing admissions, along with scholarships, to prestigious law schools in the United States, including Ivy League institutions.
In a heart-warming gesture, Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud and other justices gathered at the judges’ lounge before commencing their day’s work to celebrate Pragya’s accomplishments. They bestowed upon her a standing ovation and presented her with three books on the Indian Constitution, signed by all the judges of the Supreme Court. Additionally, they extended their congratulations to her parents for their daughter’s outstanding success.
Pragya’s journey to this achievement has been fueled by her passion for law, cultivated through her upbringing and experiences. Inspired by her father’s longstanding association with the Supreme Court, she embarked on a path to pursue a career in law. After graduating in law from Amity University in 2021, she worked as a clerk with a sitting Supreme Court justice before joining the Supreme Court’s Centre for Research and Planning (CRP) in February 2023.
The recognition and encouragement bestowed upon her by the justices have further fueled Pragya’s determination to excel in her chosen field. Expressing her gratitude, she remarked that the gesture motivated her to embrace the challenges that lie ahead.
Pragya’s ambition to pursue a master’s degree abroad stems from her belief that it will provide her with invaluable opportunities to enhance her legal skills and broaden her perspective. With admissions to renowned law schools such as Columbia Law School, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, and others, she is poised to embark on a transformative academic journey.
Reflecting on her journey, Pragya acknowledges the profound influence of her experiences at the Supreme Court in shaping her aspirations and honing her skills as a legal professional. She attributes her decision to study law and pursue it as a career to the inspiring examples set by seasoned lawyers and esteemed judges, particularly Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and former Justice R.V. Raveendran.
Looking ahead, Pragya is determined to specialize in constitutional and public law, aspiring to advocate for civil rights and serve the judiciary. Her journey stands as a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the transformative power of education.
(With inputs from agencies)
