Premier law institute NLSIU cancels convocation amid row over CJI Surya Kant's proposed presence, CJP reacts

The National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru has cancelled its convocation ceremony for the 2026 graduating batch. The university announced the cancellation on August 27, citing "unavoidable circumstances." Originally, the ceremony was set to take place on September 12.

Students had objected to Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant's proposed attendance at the convocation. Additionally, they demanded an unconditional apology from the Bar Council of India (BCI) to the student and faculty community of the NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad. This demand arose after the BCI froze the enrolment of the entire 2026 graduating batch of NALSAR, pending an inquiry into a campaign opposing CJI Kant's participation in the university's convocation.

Despite their efforts to proceed with the ceremony, the NLSIU could not hold it. All graduating students will now be given their degrees in absentia, subject to approval from the university's Governing Bodies. Students have the option to receive their certificates by courier or collect them in person at the campus. The university will provide a new form and process for students to choose their preferred option.

The cancellation of the convocation ceremony has prompted a response from the Cockroach Janta Party, whose co-convenor Saurav Das expressed hope that the graduating batch would organize its own ceremony and invite a special guest to felicitate the students.