Chief Justice of India affirms protection of students' right to peaceful protest

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant affirmed the judiciary’s commitment to protecting the fundamental right of students to hold peaceful protests during an open dialogue at Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) in Patna.

Responding to student concerns regarding police responses to demonstrations, such as those related to the NEET exam paper leaks, the CJI stated that courts “will not look the other way” if there is alleged brutal repression by law enforcement. He emphasized that expressing views peacefully falls within constitutional rights.

During the session, students also questioned the lack of public disclosure regarding dissenting opinions within the judicial collegium. The CJI explained that transparency has limits when personal dignity is at stake, noting that disclosing negative observations could place individuals in untenable positions.

Other topics discussed included rising law school fees, limited scholarships, and the economic challenges faced by young lawyers. The CJI visited the campus alongside Patna High Court Chief Justice V Kameswar Rao.