Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has issued a stern rebuke to the Bar Council of India (BCI) regarding its controversial order concerning NALSAR Law University students. The Supreme Court emphasized that students possess the fundamental right to protest and can conduct peaceful demonstrations in any part of the country. The CJI made it explicitly clear that the Bar Council of India doesn't need to interfere in such matters, describing the situation as a direct concern between himself and the student body.
The Controversy Surrounding BCI's Order
On Friday, August 14, the Chief Justice expressed significant displeasure over an order issued by the BCI. The BCI had previously directed that the registration of NALSAR Law University students from the 2026 batch as advocates should be prohibited. This move by the regulatory body for legal education and the legal profession sparked immediate controversy. While hearing the matter, the CJI remarked that this was an issue between him and the students, questioning the necessity of BCI's intervention in this specific context.
CJI Seeks Response and Protects Students
According to reports from news agency ANI, during the hearing, the CJI sought a formal response from the BCI regarding the entire matter. On top of that, the Supreme Court clarified that no punitive action should be taken against any student or professor of NALSAR Law University. The CJI emphasized that taking such actions would be against the established rules and norms. This directive ensures that the academic and professional future of the students and faculty remains protected while the legal questions are addressed.
The Background of the BCI Circular
The Bar Council of India, which is the apex body for determining legal education standards and the fate of lawyers, recently issued an order that caused a significant stir in the legal community. In this order, the BCI instructed all State Bar Councils not to enroll students passing out from NALSAR University, Hyderabad, as advocates. This decision met with heavy opposition from various quarters, eventually leading to its withdrawal. The CJI's comments came in the wake of this administrative friction.
CJI Reflects on Personal Experience
As reported by Live Law, the CJI made a poignant observation during the proceedings, stating that the BCI's interference was completely unnecessary. He shared a personal perspective, noting, "I myself was a student who was actively involved in protest demonstrations, while " This statement highlighted the court's view on the importance of student activism and dialogue.
Court Proceedings and BCI's Retraction
The Supreme Court has officially sought a response from the BCI regarding its circular. During the verbal discussion of the matter, the CJI reiterated that as a student, he was actively involved in student activities and believes that students raising their voices peacefully should be allowed to do so. Following these sharp observations from the bench, the counsel appearing for the BCI informed the court that the controversial circular has already been withdrawn. Despite this, the court issued a formal notice and ensured that no faculty member or student would face any disciplinary consequences for the events that transpired.