- BCI enrolled the entire batch of NALSAR 2026 after students objected to the participation of the CJI in the convocation.
- BCI withdrew the action against NALSAR students following public backlash.
- Students and alumni of NALSAR and NLSIU demanded an unconditional apology from Mishra.
- Mishra issued a letter on Independence Day expressing regret if his words had hurt law students.
- Mishra urged dialogue and mutual respect, stating that the relationship is deeper than any temporary controversy.
- Mishra's letter included an acknowledgment that his words may have hurt students' feelings.
- Mishra emphasized that an expression of regret is not a matter of prestige or ego.
- Mishra's letter described convocation ceremonies as special occasions marking years of hard work.
- Mishra stated that no student should feel compelled to attend or abstain from convocation.
- Mishra called for fairness and reconciliation, urging that the issue should not acquire a political colour.
BCI Chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra issued an apology to law students, acknowledging that his previous statements may have caused distress. In a letter dated Independence Day, he stated, "If anything connected with the present controversy, any of my words, or letter, has hurt the feelings of our law students, I sincerely regret and apologise for the same."
The controversy arose after the NALSAR students protested the participation of the Chief Justice of India in their convocation, leading to the BCI's decision to enroll the entire batch of 2026. Following public backlash, Mishra withdrew the action against the students but faced criticism for overstepping his authority.
Mishra's letter also addressed the nature of convocation ceremonies, describing them as "special occasions marking years of hard work" and emphasized that participation should be voluntary. He stated, "No student should be compelled to attend, and no student should feel compelled to abstain."68
He further remarked that the relationship between the judiciary, the Bar, universities, and law students is "much deeper and more enduring than any temporary controversy." Mishra concluded by advocating for resolution through dialogue, clarification, and mutual respect.
“Mishra's apology follows the BCI's withdrawal of its action against NALSAR students after public backlash, but he faced criticism for calling the campaign "nasty politics." Students and alumni of NALSAR and NLSIU had demanded an unconditional apology, and NLSIU students also objected to his participation in their convocation.”
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