The story of law education in Bhagalpur is not a recent development it is a legacy that dates back to the 19th century. Long before modern institutions and structured law faculties became common across India, Bhagalpur had already taken its first steps toward formal legal education. This journey began in 1890, when legal studies were introduced under the affiliation of University of Calcutta at T.N.J. College, an institution that is today widely known as T. N. B. College.

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The evolution of law teaching in Bhagalpur reflects dedication, philanthropy, and a strong belief in education as a means of social transformation. From its early foundation to its revival in the mid 20th century, the law department’s story is deeply connected with visionary individuals and their unwavering commitment to higher learning.

The Foundation of T.N.J. College (1887)

The establishment of T.N.J. College in 1887 marked a turning point in the educational history of Bhagalpur. The college was founded as an affiliated institution of the University of Calcutta, which at that time governed higher education across a vast region of eastern India.

The creation of the college was made possible through the generosity and efforts of distinguished personalities, including:

Tej Narayan Singh, a respected Zamindar and philanthropist

Jagannath Sahai, a noted Pleader and landholder

The esteemed House of Banaili, known for its contributions to educational development

Their collective vision was to establish an institution that would provide structured higher education to the youth of the region, reducing the need to travel to distant cities for academic advancement.

Introduction of Law Teaching in 1890

Just three years after its establishment, in 1890, the University of Calcutta granted affiliation for law teaching at T.N.J. College. This development positioned Bhagalpur among the early centers of legal education in eastern India.

At a time when legal knowledge was essential for governance, administration, and justice delivery, the introduction of law studies was both progressive and impactful. It opened doors for aspiring advocates, administrators, and public servants in the region.

The curriculum during that period focused on:

Principles of British Indian law

Civil and criminal procedures

Legal drafting and advocacy

Judicial systems and administration

Law education quickly gained importance among students who sought careers in courts, public offices, and legal practice.

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Temporary Discontinuation of Law Studies

Despite its promising start, law teaching at T.N.J. College faced interruptions after a few years. Due to various administrative and logistical challenges, the program was discontinued.

Revival of Law Teaching in 1952

The year 1952 marked a historic revival. Thanks to the determined efforts of Krishna Sahai, who was serving as the District and Sessions Judge at the time, law teaching was reinstated at T.N.J. College.

Formal Inauguration of the Law Department

The reestablished Law Department was formally inaugurated by Ranjit Sinha, a distinguished Advocate and Rai Bahadur. The ceremony was presided over by the late Uday Narayan, further emphasizing the importance of the occasion.

Contributions to the Law Library

A law department is incomplete without a well-equipped library, and the revival effort included building a strong foundation for legal research and study.