A faction of students at the National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR) in Hyderabad has urged the university administration to reconsider its decision to invite Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant as the chief guest for the upcoming convocation ceremony. This friction emerged in the wake of oral observations made by the CJI during court proceedings concerning NEET protests. However, according to media reports, the university has neither officially announced the convocation date nor confirmed the CJI as the chief guest. Even so, students pointed out that NALSAR maintains a longstanding tradition of having the sitting Chief Justice of India deliver the convocation address.
Triggering Discontent Through NEET Protests and Court Remarks
The controversy escalated when NALSAR students showed solidarity with ongoing NEET irregularities protests and supported educationist Sonam Wangchuk, who was sitting on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. On July 20, several NALSAR students skipped a meal as a token fast to register their protest. Just two days later, on July 22, a bench headed by CJI Surya Kant declined to take suo motu cognizance of alleged police brutality against demonstrators. During the hearing, the bench remarked that they had no interest in watching videos and lacked the time for it, adding that parties should not waste the court's time or their own. Clips of these remarks circulated widely across social media platforms.
Student Representation and Faculty Response
Angered by these remarks, students from the graduating batch of 2026 submitted a formal letter on July 23 to the university vice-chancellor, registrar, and faculty members, requesting a review of the chief guest selection. This representation drew backing from approximately 70 students, including members of the Student Bar Council. The protesting students argued that receiving their degrees from a dignitary who appeared dismissive of alleged police excesses contradicts the core constitutional and legal education values instilled in them at Nalsar.
Escalating Momentum and Practical Uncertainties
By July 25, roughly 380 additional students across junior batches spanning 2027 to 2031 threw their weight behind the demand. As of August 8, the university administration has not issued an official response. This lack of clarity has generated practical hurdles for post-graduate students, as many have already relocated abroad for jobs, and upcoming examinations slated for late August make convocation delays likely. The student body has warned that if their concerns continue to be ignored, they will stage demonstrations following a one-week notice period.
