Chief Justice Surya Kant of India has withdrawn his participation from convocation ceremonies at two prominent law universities following student protests and backlash. The controversy began when Justice Kant reportedly likened some unemployed youth to "cockroaches and parasites" in court remarks made in May. This led to students at Nalsar University in Hyderabad expressing their desire for him not to attend their graduation ceremony.
In response to the student sentiment and subsequent criticism from legal professionals, the Bar Council of India, led by its chairman R. Venkata Ramani, initially threatened proceedings against individuals involved in the student protests. However, following widespread condemnation, including from Chief Justice Kant himself, who stated students had a right to protest, the Bar Council reversed its decision. Ramani, who is also a Member of Parliament from the governing Bharatiya Janata Party, withdrew the threat of action.
"After considering the representations and reactions of senior advocates, members of the Bar, law students and public spirited citizens, and being satisfied that the 2026 batch of Nalsar, Hyderabad, had no role in any disturbance or movement, the Bar Council of India has decided to close the proceedings altogether. No further action is required," Ramani stated in a post on X, formerly Twitter. He also issued an apology letter, expressing regret if any of his words or actions had caused hurt to the students.
The apology, however, did not fully quell the dissent. Students and alumni from the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru joined Nalsar students in solidarity, issuing an open letter condemning Ramani's comments and stating their opposition to Justice Kant being invited to their convocation as well. Justice Kant clarified that he had not accepted the Nalsar invitation, making his attendance moot.
The student anger, however, appears to be a broader reaction to the Chief Justice's reported remarks, which have been simmering since May. The initial court statement comparing unemployed youth to pests has resonated with students who feel misrepresented and disrespected. While the Bar Council of India has closed proceedings and issued an apology, the dialogue between law students and the judiciary concerning judicial commentary on societal issues continues. The situation highlights the growing assertiveness of students in expressing their views on matters of public concern and judicial conduct.