NLSIU students, alumni oppose CJI Surya Kant as convocation chief guest

Students and alumni of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru have opposed the attendance of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra at the upcoming convocation. In a statement, 165 graduating students, 409 current students, and 128 alumni condemned the BCI’s now-withdrawn order to halt enrolment of NALSAR University of Law graduates and expressed solidarity with NALSAR students who had opposed CJI Kant’s visit. The statement called inviting persons "who have publicly expressed disdain and condescension" towards students "offensive, humiliating, and a mockery". They have demanded an unconditional apology from the BCI.

CJI Kant told the Times of India that he "never consented to NALSAR's invitation" to be chief guest, adding that the question of attending does not arise. The controversy started after over 400 of NALSAR's 1,400 students opposed his presence, citing his remarks during a hearing on petitions related to a student march to Parliament on July 20. The BCI had ordered an inquiry and threatened to debar opposing students from registration as advocates, but withdrew the circular after widespread criticism. The Supreme Court has sought the BCI's response.

Separately, the All India Lawyers Union (AILU) has demanded the resignation of BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra over the order. AILU president Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya said Mishra "ought to have resigned, showing respect for the chair". The AILU also demanded withdrawal of cases against protesters in recent NEET-UG agitation and a monthly stipend of Rs 10,000 for junior lawyers.