CJI Surya Kant says he never accepted NALSAR convocation invite

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has clarified that he never consented to an invitation from NALSAR University to be the chief guest at its convocation. Speaking informally in Jodhpur after addressing vice-chancellors of National Law Universities, he said the question of attending the ceremony did not arise. His remarks come days after over 450 students of the 2026 batch objected to his presence over oral observations he made during a case related to a students' march to Parliament in July.

The controversy escalated after Bar Council of India chairman Manan Kumar Mishra directed state bar councils not to enrol NALSAR's graduating students as advocates. The order was withdrawn within hours after widespread criticism. The Supreme Court later took a strong view of the BCI's intervention, calling it unnecessary and affirming students' right to dissent. The CJI had earlier called the BCI's move 'totally uncalled for'. With his latest clarification, the episode has effectively ended.

NALSAR had confirmed it invited the CJI as per tradition. The convocation is expected in late August or September.