NLSIU students, alumni oppose CJI Surya Kant, BCI chairman attending convocation

The National Law School of India University students and alumni have voiced their opposition to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Bar Council of India Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra attending the university's upcoming convocation. In a statement signed by 165 Class of 2026 graduates, 409 current students and 128 alumni, the group condemned the BCI's order to halt enrollment of NALSAR University of Law students, stating they are in solidarity with NALSAR's students, who they praised for their courage and moral conviction in expressing their views.

The statement criticized the BCI for initiating unconstitutional and illegal proceedings against the students and faculty members of the public university, emphasizing that the BCI's actions are arbitrary and illegal, and that a university convocation is a significant event for students, symbolizing hard work and perseverance. The group demanded a formal apology from the BCI for infringing the fundamental right to free speech of students and faculty members at NALSAR and for sending a chilling effect on free speech across the country.

They also expressed their disapproval of Chief Justice Surya Kant attending the convocation, citing the same reasons.