The Supreme Court on Friday strongly backed the right of NALSAR University of Law students to protest, questioning the Bar Council of India’s intervention in a dispute involving the university’s 2026 graduating batch.
A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said students could not be stopped from protesting and questioned the BCI’s authority to interfere in what the court described as a dialogue between the CJI and the students.
“They have a right to protest. Who can stop them,” the CJI said while hearing a plea challenging a BCI circular concerning the enrolment of NALSAR graduates as advocates.
The Bench, which also comprised Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, said the issue was a matter between the court and the students. “It’s a dialogue between me and students. Who are they (BCI) to interfere,” the CJI said.
The court issued notice to the BCI seeking its response and directed that no punitive action be taken against NALSAR students or faculty at the instance of the BCI or any state Bar council.
Also read: NALSAR students say no to CJI as chief guest
The development came a day after the BCI directed all state Bar councils not to enrol any 2026 graduate of NALSAR University of Law as an advocate until further orders. The decision triggered widespread criticism and was withdrawn within hours.
The BCI had initially said it was examining allegations concerning a campaign against CJI Kant’s participation in NALSAR’s convocation. It had sought a report identifying those allegedly responsible and said a final decision would be taken on August 19 after examining the material placed before it.
Following the backlash, the BCI modified its order and permitted state Bar councils to enrol NALSAR’s 2026 graduates. It said the “vast majority” of students were innocent and should not be made to suffer for the alleged misconduct of a few.
During Friday’s hearing, counsel for the BCI informed the Supreme Court that the controversial circular had already been withdrawn.
The Bench posted the matter for further hearing after two weeks.
The court’s intervention provides immediate relief to the graduating students, while the BCI will now have to respond formally to the challenge against its earlier decision.
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