Supreme Court Halts Punitive Action Against NALSAR Students and Faculty
New Delhi, August 14: The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, addressed the issue of letters sent by the Bar Council of India (BCI) concerning NALSAR University on Friday. Chief Justice Chandrachud expressed strong discontent regarding the BCI’s involvement.
Senior Advocate K. Parameshwar informed the court that the BCI should not interfere in the affairs of any university. In response, Chief Justice Chandrachud stated, “The BCI’s interference is entirely unnecessary. This is a dialogue between the students and myself. Who are they to raise this issue? It is completely unwarranted.”
He emphasized that during his student years, he actively participated in student activities. Even if students make mistakes, they still have the right to protest. The BCI has no role in this matter.
Chief Justice Chandrachud remarked, “Just because a young person makes a wrong statement does not mean they lose their right to protest.”
During the hearing, the Supreme Court issued a notice and provided an interim order stating that no punitive action should be taken against any student or faculty member of national law universities. The BCI accepted the notice and informed the court that the pending circular had been withdrawn. However, the Supreme Court stated that the BCI could submit its response within two weeks.
The court also clarified that no punitive measures would be taken against NALSAR students regarding the incidents mentioned in the letters.
Chief Justice Chandrachud addressed the students, urging them to complete their enrollment and join the Supreme Court Bar. He also mentioned that students would be included in the legal aid course panel.
Following these remarks, the court has asked the BCI to respond within two weeks, providing relief to students and faculty at the university in the meantime.
The Bar Council of India had previously issued an order preventing a batch of students from NALSAR University in Hyderabad from registering as graduate lawyers, which faced widespread opposition.
