CJI Says He Never Accepted NALSAR Invite
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has clarified that he never accepted NALSAR University of Law’s invitation to attend its convocation as chief guest, saying there was therefore no question of him attending the ceremony. The clarification comes amid controversy over student opposition to his proposed presence at the event.
CJI Surya Kant Clarifies NALSAR Invitation
NALSAR had invited CJI Surya Kant to attend its convocation in keeping with the university’s practice of inviting the Chief Justice of India to the ceremony.
However, the CJI has now said that he never accepted the invitation. His clarification directly addresses reports suggesting that he was expected to attend the convocation despite opposition from a section of students.
More than 400 students had reportedly opposed inviting the CJI as chief guest, citing remarks made during proceedings concerning alleged police action against student protesters.
NALSAR Student Protest Sparks BCI Controversy
The controversy escalated after the Bar Council of India intervened and initially directed state bar councils to halt enrolment of NALSAR’s 2026 graduating batch while seeking an inquiry into the student campaign.
The move triggered widespread criticism over whether professional enrolment could be linked to students exercising their right to protest.
The BCI subsequently withdrew the action, clearing the way for affected graduates to proceed with enrolment.
Supreme Court Questions BCI Intervention
The Supreme Court later questioned the BCI’s intervention, with the CJI stating that students had a right to protest and that the issue was between him and the students.
The court also directed that no punitive action be taken against NALSAR students or faculty in connection with the controversy.
The latest clarification that the CJI never accepted the invitation adds a significant dimension to the dispute surrounding the proposed convocation appearance.
