Understanding Punishment: A Philosophical Exploration of Reformative, Preventive and Retributive Theories 

On 9th October 2025, the Department of Philosophy, Don Bosco College, Tura organized a departmental seminar for the 5th Semester Honours students on the theme “Understanding Punishment: A Philosophical Exploration of Reformative, Preventive and Retributive Theories”. The seminar was held at 11:00 am in Bosco Hall. The occasion was graced by the Vice Principal of the College, Rev. Fr. John Paul Tirkey, the IQAC Coordinator, Dr. Mueller Buel M Sangma and the faculty members of the Department. A total of 96 participants attended the seminar including Honours students from the first and third semesters, along with the paper presenters from the fifth semester. 

The seminar commenced with a welcome and introductory speech on the theme of the Seminar by the Head of the Department, Dr. Wanphai Mary K. Japang, followed by an address from the IQAC Coordinator, Dr. Meuller Buel M Sangma.  In her speech, Dr. Sangma emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary courses under NEP 2020 and highlighted the close connection between Education and Philosophy. She encouraged students to actively engage in the seminar to enhance their critical understanding and analytical skills.

The seminar was formally inaugurated by the Vice Principal of the College Rev. Fr. John Paul Tirkey. In his address, he shared valuable insights on the philosophical and practical significance of punishment in shaping ethical and moral life. He further motivated students to participate actively in the seminar as such participation would enrich their academic growth and contribute positively to their future endeavours. 

The technical session comprised four group presentations by the fifth semester Honours students, each focusing on different aspects of the theme. The first group explored the concept of punishment from a philosophical perspective, laying the foundation for the discussion. The second group analyzed the "Reformative Theory" which emphasizes that punishment should reform the offenders and guide them toward responsible behavior. The third group discussed the "Preventive Theory" which stresses that punishment aims to prevent future crimes and protect society. The fourth and final group examined the "Retributive Theory" which highlights that punishment ensures justice by giving the offenders what they deserve. Each group effectively presented the concept of punishment, explained the significance of their respective theories and discussed the criticisms offered by various philosophers.  

Jerry Amami R Marak, a fifth semester student, presented a concise summary of the main ideas discussed in each presentation and concluded the technical session by stressing the significance of punishment  in shaping individuals toward ethical and moral behavior.

Following each presentation, participants and paper presenters were encouraged to pose questions to the respective groups. The group representatives and members answered the questions thoughtfully and helped everyone gain a clearer understanding of the seminar theme. 

The seminar was skillfully hosted by Prena Sutradhar from the third semester, who ensured that each session proceeded smoothly.  The Seminar ended with a vote of thanks delivered by Pratima M Marak, a first semester student who expressed sincere gratitude to everyone involved in making the seminar a grand success.