NALSAR row: Supreme Court says students have right to protest, BCI has no business to stop them

CJI Surya Kant expressed displeasure at the BCI's circular banning the enrolment of 2026-batch graduates of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, as advocates. The Supreme Court on Friday said that students have a right to protest and that the Bar Council of India has “no business” stopping them. The apex court made the observation in light of the controversy surrounding the BCI's letter in the NASLAR row.Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said, "It's a dialogue between the students and me." (PTI)Chief Justice of India Surya Kant expressed displeasure at the BCI's circular banning the enrolment of 2026-batch graduates of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, as advocates.“It's a dialogue between me and the students. Who are they (BCI) to interfere?” the CJI said.Deep DiveThe controversy began after reports of a campaign by some NALSAR students opposing CJI Surya Kant's participation in the university's convocation.Reacting to the reports, the BCI had directed all State Bar Councils not to enrol any student from NALSAR's 2026 graduating batch until further orders. It also sought a detailed inquiry from the university to identify those who organised or participated in the campaign.The Council argued that disrespect towards the country's highest judicial office was inconsistent with the values expected from future lawyers.After the circular faced criticism from the Cockroach Janta Party and other sources on and off social media, the BCI reconsidered its decision. It withdrew the blanket enrolment ban, saying that most students were innocent and had no role in the reported campaign.The Council, however, initially continued with its proposed inquiry into those allegedly involved.BCI chairman Mannan Mishra later announced that even those proceedings had been closed after the BCI found that the graduating batch had no involvement in any disturbance.Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More