Chief Justice of India Surya Kant is set to preside over the convocation ceremony at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru on October 17. The university has confirmed that the Chief Justice will assume his role as Chancellor during the event. He will be accompanied by theatre artist Arundhati Nag, who is scheduled to give the convocation address as the Chief Guest. This announcement comes after weeks of uncertainty related to a prior controversy regarding his invitation.

Background of Protests and Controversy

The decision for the Chief Justice to attend was met with resistance from the student body, particularly the outgoing batch of 2026. In August, approximately 165 students from this group, along with 409 from other years and 128 alumni, voiced their opposition to CJI Surya Kant’s invitation as Chief Guest. The unrest was partly fuelled by allegations regarding his comments about unemployment among young people and responses to student protests, which had also spurred a boycott at NALSAR University of Law, where students expressed similar concerns.

This wave of protests led NLSIU to announce on August 27 the cancellation of its convocation due to “unavoidable circumstances.” The announcement indicated a sensitive atmosphere surrounding the event, prompting the university to reconsider the participation of key figures, including CJI Surya Kant and Bar Council of India Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra, both of whom had faced significant backlash. However, the university later reversed its decision last month, opting to proceed with the ceremony while initially withholding concrete details regarding the Chief Justice’s attendance.

In light of the recent confirmation, the upcoming event aims to bring together graduating students, faculty, and guests amidst the backdrop of these protests. School officials have made it clear that the ceremony is focused on celebrating the achievements of the students and providing an opportunity for the outgoing batch to mark this significant milestone in their academic journey.

Expectations for the Ceremony

The October 17 event is anticipated to act as a major gathering for the university community following a period of tension and division. With Arundhati Nag confirmed as the speaker for the convocation address, expectations are high for her to inspire the students as they enter a new phase of their lives. Her presence is viewed as an opportunity to redirect focus onto the academic accomplishments being recognised at this important ceremony, highlighting the role of education in shaping future legal professionals.

As the ceremony approaches, administrators are reportedly making efforts to ensure that both the celebration and the concerns of the student body are taken into account. The university has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold a respectful and inclusive atmosphere during the proceedings, encouraging all attendees to engage constructively. This is set against a backdrop of ongoing discussions within the academic community regarding the balance between institutional leadership and student rights.

Ultimately, the convocation on October 17 will not only celebrate the graduating class but will also signify a crucial moment for the university as it navigates the complexities of contemporary issues in higher education in India. As such, the event is likely to be closely monitored by various stakeholders within the legal and academic fields.

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