New Delhi: The CJI objects to the BCI circular on NALSAR enrolment issue which came before the Supreme Court on August 14, 2026. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant questioned the Bar Council of India’s (BCI) role in issuing a circular against NALSAR University students over objections to his proposed participation in the university’s convocation. The Supreme Court also directed that no action be taken against students while the matter remains under consideration.
NALSAR Controversy: Supreme Court Questions BCI’s Intervention
The Supreme Court on Friday heard a petition filed by NALSAR University students challenging two circulars issued by the Bar Council of India (BCI). During the hearing, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant questioned the BCI’s authority to intervene in what he described as a dialogue between students and himself.
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The CJI said that students had written directly to him and that the matter was essentially a conversation between students and the Chief Justice.
What Triggered the NALSAR Controversy
The controversy began after some NALSAR students raised objections to the CJI being invited as the chief guest for the university’s convocation ceremony. Following this, the BCI issued a circular directing State Bar Councils not to enrol NALSAR students graduating in 2026 until further orders. The BCI also sought a report from the NALSAR Vice-Chancellor regarding the campaign and the individuals allegedly involved in organising it.
NALSAR Controversy: BCI Withdraws the Circular
Within hours, the BCI withdrew its enrollment restriction. The council stated that its internal deliberations showed that most students from the 2026 graduating batch were not involved in any attempt to disrespect the Chief Justice. However, the BCI initially said that it could still consider further action after reviewing the Vice-Chancellor’s report.
CJI Defends Students’ Right to Express Views
During the hearing, CJI Surya Kant said students should be allowed to express their views through lawful means, even if those views are considered incorrect. He noted that student participation and debate are part of academic life and should not automatically invite punitive action.
The CJI also observed that institutions should respond to criticism with a broader perspective, especially when students are at the beginning of their professional careers.
Supreme Court Protects Students From Immediate Action
The Supreme Court noted that the disputed BCI circular had already been withdrawn. The Court directed the BCI to file its response within two weeks. It also ordered that no action should be taken against any NALSAR student concerning the subject letters until further proceedings. This interim protection provides relief to students while the legal challenge continues.
CJI Encourages Students To Join The Legal Profession
In a lighter moment during the proceedings, the Chief Justice encouraged students to complete their enrolment process and join the legal profession without delay. He suggested that eligible graduates could even be considered for legal aid work in the future. The remarks were seen as a message of support for students concerned about their professional prospects.
NALSAR Controversy: BCI Drops Proceedings Against 2026 Batch
Later, BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra announced that all proceedings against the 2026 NALSAR batch had been dropped. According to the BCI, representations from senior advocates, members of the Bar, law students and concerned citizens helped clarify that the graduating batch was not involved in any disruption. The council stated that it would take no further action in the matter.
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