About the CPA Project

The CPA Project is a research- and litigation-based advocacy initiative based in Bhopal, dedicated to ending the systemic targeting of oppressed caste groups—particularly Denotified Tribes (DNTs)—by the criminal justice system. Grounded in anti-caste and anti-carceral principles, CPA challenges the casteist and colonial foundations of policing that prioritize incarceration over care.

Through pre-trial, trial, and strategic litigation—mainly in Madhya Pradesh—CPA confronts the routine criminalization of Denotified Tribes and other oppressed caste communities by law enforcement.

Key Responsibilities

Litigation Work

• Collaborate with the Litigation Coordinator and team on criminal defence cases across multiple forums in Madhya Pradesh
• Represent CPA in courts and other legal venues within Bhopal and across the state
• Conduct legal research, drafting, and case-related writing
• Offer pre-trial legal assistance to the accused at police stations
• Engage regularly with criminalized communities in Bhopal’s bastis, addressing their legal concerns
• Keep up-to-date with relevant laws, judgments, and procedural developments
• Maintain clear communication with clients, offering updates, guidance, and support throughout their legal journey
• Ensure proper organization and management of case files, documents, and related records
• Work collaboratively with the advocacy and research teams on strategic litigation
• Attend training programs and contribute to collective learning by sharing legal expertise

Organisational Involvement

• Uphold CPA’s anti-caste values and support an ethical, enabling work environment
• Participate in advocacy, networking, and other organisational activities
• Contribute to building CPA as a learning-oriented space
• Take part in team meetings and support internal capacity-building
• Assist with donor engagement by providing timely updates and progress reports

Eligibility Criteria

• Law degree holder
• Enrolled with the Bar Council of India
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in criminal trial litigation
• Familiarity with Madhya Pradesh’s legal and social justice landscape is an added advantage
• Strong communication skills in both Hindi and English (spoken and written)

Remuneration

A consolidated monthly payment of ₹50,000 (subject to 10% TDS deduction) will be offered.

Application Process

Email the following documents to: applications.cpaproject@gmail.com

• Your CV
• A short write-up (maximum 800 words) explaining why you believe you’re a suitable candidate for this position

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further steps, which may include interviews and written assessments. Early-career professionals are encouraged to apply.