NLSIU Rescinds Convocation Cancellation, Sets New Date for 2026 Graduates

The National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru has announced the rescheduling of its convocation ceremony for the 2026 graduating cohort, set to take place on October 17. This development comes after the university initially decided to cancel the event, originally planned for September 12, citing “unavoidable circumstances.” The cancellation faced significant backlash from more than 700 students and alumni, particularly in response to the proposed attendance of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra.

In a recent statement, the NLSIU revealed that the decision to hold the convocation in October was approved during a meeting of the university’s executive and general councils. This meeting was chaired by Chief Justice Kant, who also serves as the university’s chancellor. The retraction of the cancellation reflects the university’s efforts to address student concerns and affirm its commitment to uphold traditions despite earlier controversies.

Originally, the opposition to the planned attendance of Chief Justice Kant and BCI Chairperson Mishra stemmed from various student bodies, who expressed apprehensions regarding the implications of their presence at the ceremony. Their protests underscored a broader sentiment among students regarding the autonomy and integrity of legal education in India, particularly in light of recent conflicts involving regulatory bodies.

Moreover, not only did students voice their concerns about the convocation, but they also condemned the BCI’s now-retracted directive against the outgoing batch of the National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR). This prompted demands for an unconditional apology from the BCI, with students expressing solidarity with their counterparts from NALSAR over two controversial letters issued by the council on August 13.

The NLSIU’s about-face on the convocation cancellation is a significant development in the ongoing dialogue between educational institutions and regulatory bodies. It highlights the importance of student voices in shaping university policies and the role of alumni in advocating for their peers. As the new date approaches, students and faculty alike are hopeful for a successful ceremony that honors the hard work and dedication of the graduating class.

Source: scroll.in