CJI Surya Kant addresses NLSIU convocation amid uncertainty

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant addressed the 34th convocation of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru, noting that external forces had created uncertainty regarding the event's schedule. He urged graduates to uphold professional ethics, defend constitutional values, and maintain the courage to defend justice while possessing the humility to listen to unheard voices. He described the legal profession as a “calling” and a “living conversation” that requires intellectual independence and fairness.

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also attended the ceremony, emphasizing that a strong democracy must allow citizens to question the government. He encouraged graduates to act as guardians of the Constitution and to prioritize integrity and compassion.

To support legal professionals, Shivakumar announced that the Karnataka government will establish a dedicated institution to train law graduates for judicial service examinations. Additionally, the state will support a start-up law clinic at NLSIU to provide pro bono legal advice to young entrepreneurs.