Bar Council of India chief apologizes after barring NALSAR law students

Manan Kumar Mishra, Chief of the Bar Council of India (BCI), has issued an apology following a controversial order that sought to bar the 2026 graduating batch of NALSAR University of Law from enrolling as advocates.

The dispute arose after students at the Hyderabad-based university opposed an invitation to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant to serve as the convocation's chief guest. The students' objection stemmed from previous remarks made by the Chief Justice during a hearing regarding police brutality protests. In response to the students' stance, the BCI had directed state bar councils to withhold the enrolment of these specific students, arguing that a lack of respect for the highest judicial office indicated they would not be responsible advocates.

The order faced criticism from legal professionals, including the Supreme Court Bar Association President, who described the move as arbitrary and disproportionate. Following criticism and a reprimand from the Chief Justice, Mishra apologized, stating that “independence of thought” must be respected. The incident has prompted renewed debate regarding the statutory powers of the BCI and the distinction between its regulatory authority over legal education and the role of State Bar Councils in professional enrolment.