Breaking: CJI Surya Kant Backs NALSAR Students, Rejects Bar Council Interference in Enrolment

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has strongly questioned the Bar Council of India’s intervention in the controversy involving protesting students of NALSAR University of Law in Hyderabad. The Supreme Court said students have the right to peacefully express disagreement and questioned why the BCI intervened in what the CJI described as a matter between him and the students. The controversy erupted after a section of NALSAR’s 2026 graduating batch objected to the reported invitation of CJI Surya Kant as chief guest for the university’s convocation. The students’ campaign subsequently triggered action from the Bar Council of India. The BCI had initially directed state bar councils not to enrol the university’s 2026 graduates as advocates. The decision created a major debate over students’ freedom to protest and the professional consequences of expressing dissent. The council later withdrew the blanket directive following widespread criticism. During the Supreme Court hearing, CJI Surya Kant questioned the need for the BCI to intervene, noting that young students can hold differing views and express their opposition. The court made it clear that peaceful protest cannot automatically become a reason to block a student’s professional future. The Supreme Court has also sought a response from the BCI regarding its earlier circular, while protection has been extended against punitive action concerning the students and faculty. The development has brought renewed attention to the balance between student expression, institutional authority and professional regulation in the legal education system.