BCI U-Turn: NALSAR Graduates Cleared for Enrollment After Convocation Protest Row
Public Lokpal
August 14, 2026
BCI U-Turn: NALSAR Graduates Cleared for Enrollment After Convocation Protest Row
The Bar Council of India (BCI) abruptly reversed its controversial order barring 2026 graduates of NALSAR University of Law from enrolling as advocates. The initial punitive directive was issued after over 450 students petitioned against inviting the Chief Justice of India to their convocation over a recent judicial remark.
Denouncing the student dissent as gross indiscipline, BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra initially instructed State Bar Councils to withhold enrollment for the entire graduating batch.
This triggered fierce nationwide condemnation from legal experts, who criticized the blanket ban as a draconian overreach violating statutory rights.
Facing intense backlash, the BCI retracted the order within hours, confirming that innocent students will not be penalized. While clearing the path for their legal careers, the council stated it will await an inquiry report to investigate alleged instigation by outsiders and faculty members.