Bareilly: The Department of Law at Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University successfully conducted the final PhD viva-voce presentation of research scholar Rashtra Vardhan, marking a significant academic milestone.
The viva was attended by distinguished academicians, including external examiner Prof. C. P. Singh, along with research supervisor and Head of Department Prof. Amit Singh. Faculty members Prof. V. K. Gupta and Associate Professor Dr. Arun Prakash Singh were also present on the occasion. The guests were formally welcomed with bouquets and shawls.
Research Focus on Cyber Space and Internet Rights
During the presentation, Rashtra Vardhan presented his doctoral research titled “Secured Cyber Space: An Analysis of the Right to Internet Access and Its Implication for Cyber Security.” The study addressed critical issues such as internet shutdowns, cyber threats, and the legal framework governing digital access.
The scholar proposed several key recommendations, including strengthening digital infrastructure, ensuring equitable internet speed for all users, and enhancing public awareness to identify and prevent emerging cyber crimes. The research also emphasized the need for swift legal remedies through an efficient judicial and administrative framework.
Policy Suggestions and Legal Reforms
Among the notable suggestions were the adoption of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for improving cyber security, treating internet shutdowns strictly as a last-resort preventive measure, and integrating internet education into primary schooling.
The study further recommended the formulation of a comprehensive law to regulate internet shutdowns, along with provisions for judicial review to ensure accountability and safeguard fundamental rights.
Academic Participation and Appreciation
The event witnessed active participation from faculty members including Dr. Shehnaz Akhtar, Dr. Laxmi Devi, Dr. Praveen Krishna Chauhan, Naimuddin, Preksha Singh, Amit Kumar Singh, Nidhi Shankar, Jyoti Mishra, and Dr. Sachin Rastogi, along with research scholars, LLM students, and departmental staff.
The research was conducted under the supervision of Prof. Amit Singh, who guided the scholar throughout the study.
The successful completion of the viva highlights the growing focus on cyber law and digital rights in academic research, particularly at a time when issues of internet access and cyber security are becoming increasingly significant in policy and governance.
