NLSIU students oppose CJI, BCI chief convocation

Students and alumni of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) have opposed the attendance of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and India — Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra at the university's upcoming convocation. In a statement dated August 15, signed by 165 graduating students, 409 current students, and 128 alumni, they condemned the BCI's now-withdrawn order that had directed state bar councils not to enrol 2026 graduates of NALSAR University of Law. The NLSIU community expressed solidarity with NALSAR students and faculty, demanded an unconditional apology from the BCI, and criticized the BCI's actions as unconstitutional and illegal. They also objected to the CJI's attendance, citing his alleged 'disdain and condescension' towards students. The protest follows a similar movement at NALSAR, where students opposed the CJI's invitation as chief guest, leading to the BCI's controversial enrolment ban, which was later withdrawn after an uproar and criticism from the Supreme Court.