The organizational mission extends beyond litigation to encompass rigorous interdisciplinary research. The Clinic explores the intersections of forensics, mental health, and torture within the Indian penal system. By fostering a collaborative environment, it brings together legal professionals, social scientists, and mental health experts to challenge systemic injustices. Interning here allows students to contribute to transformative legal work that directly impacts the lives of the most marginalized individuals in the criminal justice system. The Clinic’s reputation for intellectual depth and ethical commitment makes it a highly sought-after destination for those dedicated to human rights and civil liberties.
During the internship, participants are integrated into the Clinic’s ongoing projects. Full-time interns (4 to 12 weeks) and part-time interns (minimum 12 weeks) assist in building case theories, conducting comparative legal research, and documenting the socio-economic backgrounds of prisoners. The learning outcomes are profound; interns develop a nuanced understanding of criminal procedure, the psychology of incarceration, and the practical hurdles in providing effective legal aid. The program encourages interns to think critically about the law’s role in society and provides the tools necessary to conduct high-quality empirical and doctrinal research.
The Paid In-Person Internship Opportunity at Square Circle Clinic is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from diverse academic backgrounds. While law students are the primary focus, the Clinic actively seeks candidates from the social sciences, psychology, psychiatry, and media and communication disciplines to support its interdisciplinary research. Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to social justice and have excellent analytical and writing skills. Due to the sensitive nature of the work, interns are expected to maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and professional ethics. Familiarity with the Indian criminal justice system and human rights frameworks is considered an advantage.
To apply for the Paid In-Person Internship Opportunity at Square Circle Clinic, candidates must submit their applications through the designated Google Forms as provided in the post at least two months before their desired start date.