70-yr-old gets chance to complete LLM as part of DU's spl initiative

New Delhi: He dropped out of the Delhi University (DU) around 42 years ago. Rakesh Kumar Rawat, now 70, has got another chance to fulfil his "long-cherished" dream of completing his Master of Laws (LLM) as part of the varsity's 'centenary chance' initiative.

Rawat, a 1979-batch DU student who is now settled in Lucknow, believes that it is never too late to pursue dreams and be a student. He said he could not complete his degree due to his regular outstation assignments while working for the CBI.

Now, he is among over 8,200 former DU students who have registered for a second opportunity to complete their degrees. The varsity has given a one-time chance to allow former students to complete their degrees in view of its year-long centenary celebrations that commenced on May 1.

Rawat, who is also a lawyer, said he is excited about the opportunity as it will help him get deeper knowledge in the field. "It is a great opportunity for those who are desirous of completing their course. A long-cherished desire will be completed. I want to thank the university for this opportunity," he said.

"During my time in the university, I worked hard but my hard work did not meet the conclusion. With this opportunity, I will be able to get a degree and delve into the study of law," Rawat said. Rawat did his LLB from Lucknow and later joined the CBI as an investigative officer. He was transferred to Delhi and took admission to LLM course at the Delhi University in 1979.

"It was a three-year course — there were papers in five semesters and one was supposed to submit a dissertation in the last year. I completed four semesters and gave one paper in the fifth semester but due to my job, I had to go far away on assignments so had to drop out and I could not give two of my papers," he said.

Life went on for Rawat who got engrossed in his work. However, there was a deep-seated yearning to complete the degree.

"I was very keen to complete my degree. I tried different universities for transfer of credit system, but no help came. I came to know about the DU advertisement about the special initiative through one of my friends. I turned out to be eligible and have registered for it," he added. mpost