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Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has broken his silence over the controversy surrounding the NALSAR University of Law convocation invitation, saying "The issue should be addressed through direct communication between him and the students rather than intervention by external bodies."
Reacting to the developments, CJI Surya Kant questioned the role of the Bar Council of India (BCI) in the matter and said the disagreement was essentially a conversation between the Chief Justice and students of a premier law institution.
The controversy began after a section of NALSAR students raised objections to the proposed invitation of CJI Surya Kant as the chief guest for the university’s convocation ceremony.
The students had expressed concerns over certain observations reportedly made by the Chief Justice during a Supreme Court hearing related to allegations of police action against protesters. They argued that their concerns were linked to the values of constitutional rights, accountability and justice that are central to legal education.
The representation by students triggered a wider debate over the right of students to express disagreement with constitutional authorities and the manner in which such objections should be handled.
The matter escalated after the Bar Council of India issued an order directing state bar councils not to enrol NALSAR’s 2026 graduating batch as advocates until further instructions.
The BCI also sought details from the university regarding students allegedly involved in organising the campaign against the proposed convocation guest. The move faced criticism from several sections of the legal fraternity, who questioned the decision to take action against an entire batch of graduates.
Critics argued that collective action against students could affect their professional careers and raise concerns regarding freedom of expression.
Following strong reactions from students, lawyers and members of the public, the Bar Council of India withdrew its earlier directive.
In its revised communication, the BCI clarified that the majority of students should not face consequences for the actions or opinions of a few individuals. It allowed all students of the 2026 batch to proceed with enrolment before state bar councils.
The council also later decided to close further proceedings related to the matter.
