BCI Chief Apologises Over NALSAR Student Row
Bar Council of India Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra has apologised to law students following controversy over an order that temporarily barred NALSAR University of Law’s entire 2026 graduating batch from enrolling as advocates. Mishra said the episode was not a matter of personal prestige or ego and expressed regret to students who were hurt by his remarks or communications.
BCI Chairman Apologises to Law Students
In an Independence Day message, Mishra said he sincerely regretted any distress caused to students and emphasised that there should be no hesitation in apologising when circumstances warranted it.
He also supported students’ right to peaceful protest and urged them to resolve disagreements through dialogue while respecting institutions.
NALSAR Enrolment Ban Withdrawn
The controversy began after NALSAR students opposed Chief Justice of India Surya Kant’s invitation to their 2026 convocation.
The BCI initially directed State Bar Councils not to enrol any graduate from the university’s 2026 batch. The sweeping restriction prompted criticism from students, lawyers and members of the legal community.
Within hours, the BCI withdrew the enrolment restriction. It later closed the remaining inquiry after concluding that the graduating batch had no role in any disturbance or movement.
Supreme Court Criticised BCI Intervention
The controversy also reached the Supreme Court, where CJI Surya Kant criticised the BCI’s intervention as “absolutely uncalled for”.
The Chief Justice said the disagreement was between him and the students and stressed their right to dissent.
The episode has triggered wider debate over student expression, professional regulation and the limits of disciplinary intervention in university disputes.
