Full Breakdown
CJI Surya Kant to Preside Over NLSIU Convocation on October 17
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant will preside over the 34th annual convocation of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) on October 17. As the university’s Chancellor, he will confer degrees at the Jnana Jyoti Auditorium, Bengaluru. Arundhati Nag, Padma Shri-honoured theatre artist, will serve as chief guest and deliver the convocation address. The ceremony runs from 11 am to 1 pm.
Background & Context
The convocation was originally set for September 12, 2026 but was cancelled on August 27 after students and alumni protested the proposed attendance of Justice Kant and Bar Council of India Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra. The protest mirrored a boycott at NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, where students objected to Kant’s remarks during Supreme Court hearings on the NEET paper-leak protests and police actions at the July 20 Jantar Mantar demonstration.
Following the cancellation, NLSIU’s executive and general councils reconvened on September 9, chaired by Justice Kant, and approved October 17 as the new date. A university communication on October 7 confirmed Kant’s attendance as Chancellor.
Key Figures & Groups
- Surya Kant — Chief Justice of India; Chancellor of NLSIU.
- Manan Kumar Mishra — Chairman, Bar Council of India.
- Arundhati Nag — Theatre artist, Padma Shri awardee; chief guest.
- NLSIU Executive Council & General Council — Approved the rescheduled date.
- Students & alumni of NLSIU — Opposed the CJI’s participation.
- Students of NALSAR University of Law — Conducted a solidarity boycott.
Timeline
- August 3 – Registrar’s notice of a September 12 convocation.
- August 13 – BCI directive to halt NALSAR enrolment (withdrawn hours later).
- August 15 – Students and alumni issued a statement condemning the BCI order.
- August 27 – NLSIU cancelled the September convocation.
- September 9 – Councils approved the October 17 date, chaired by Justice Kant.
- October 7 – University confirmed Kant’s attendance.
- October 17 – Convocation scheduled.
Data & Statistics
- 165 graduating students, 409 other students, and 128 alumni signed a statement opposing Kant’s participation.
- Over 700 students signed a letter objecting to both Kant and Mishra attending.
- About 450 NALSAR students had earlier urged NLSIU to reconsider inviting the CJI.
Official Statements & Responses
- The university confirmed Kant will preside as Chancellor and Nag will deliver the address.
- The executive and general councils formally approved the October 17 schedule.
- The Bar Council withdrew its directive after criticism from the legal community and student bodies.
- Justice Kant met with NLSIU students to hear their concerns.
What’s Next
The convocation will be held from 11 am to 1 pm at the Jnana Jyoti Auditorium, Palace Road, Bengaluru. Graduating students may receive their degrees in person or in absentia, according to the university’s latest invitation.