CJI Surya Kant Declines Nalsar Convocation Invite Amid Student, BCI Row
- On Saturday, students from the National Law School of India University, Bengaluru, condemned the Bar Council of India's now-withdrawn action against NALSAR University's graduating batch. They demanded an unconditional apology for infringing on free speech rights.
- Bar Council of India Chairman Manan Mohan Mishra had directed state bar councils to defer enrolling NALSAR graduates following students' organized campaign against inviting Chief Justice Surya Kant to their convocation. The directive cited objections to his past judicial conduct.
- Chief Justice Surya Kant criticized the BCI's interference, asking, 'Who are they to interfere?' Following nationwide backlash, Mishra rolled back the directive, though the council initially sought an inquiry identifying students 'principally instrumental' in the opposition.
- NLSIU students labeled the council's actions 'unconstitutional and illegal,' arguing the 1961 Advocates Act does not authorize punitive measures against qualified graduates. They demanded explanation for the unauthorized use of BCI letterhead in directives.
- A petition filed in the Supreme Court seeks structural reforms to the Bar Council, including tenure limits for officials. The plea argues that prolonged continuation of individuals like Mishra in senior positions weakens the statutory body's representative character.
33 Articles
33 Articles
CJI Surya Kant declines Nalsar convocation invite amid student, BCI row
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant declined Nalsar University's convocation invitation. Students opposed his presence citing remarks made during a protest hearing. The Bar Council of India intervened, threatening students with debarment from legal practice. The Supreme Court questioned the BCI's involvement in the matter. The BCI later withdrew its letter and expressed regret for its actions.
Knowledge Nugget | NALSAR row puts Bar Council of India in focus: Key questions to answer about the legal body
What exactly are the powers and functions of the Bar Council of India? Can the BCI enrol advocates? What role do State Bar Councils play? And can foreign lawyers practise in India? Here’s what you need to know about the BCI, its powers and its role in regulating the legal profession.
Students oppose invite to CJI Surya Kant, BCI chief for covocation at National Law School of India University - The Tribune
The Students and Alumni of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) here have opposed CJI Surya Kant and Bar Council of India Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra attending the upcoming convocation of the varsity.
BCI chief apologises for letter banning NALSAR graduates
Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra has issued an apology to law students, particularly those from NALSAR, for any hurt caused by the recent controversy surrounding their convocation and enrolment, urging them to make independent decisions.
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