The alumni of NALSAR University of Law have strongly condemned the letters issued to the university by president, Bar Council of India (BCI), Manan Kumar Mishra, on Thursday, regarding students who expressed their views on inviting the Chief Justice of India to the university’s 2026 convocation.In a statement, the alumni said that the letters, issued on August 13, reflected a “lack of empathy” towards students, disregarding the fundamental right to free speech and an “arbitrary and high-handed” approach towards students and faculty.The first letter had barred NALSAR students graduating in 2026 from enrolling as advocates and directed the Vice-Chancellor to probe and identify those involved in the ‘campaign’.The enrolment restriction and demand for an inquiry were withdrawn shortly afterwards following public pressure. However, they criticised what they described as the BCI’s “coercive threats” and questioned its jurisdiction to intervene in an internal university matter.The BCI’s statutory role is limited to promoting legal education and laying down standards for that kind of education. And it has no authority to regulate free speech on university campuses or impose disciplinary measures on students and faculty without notice or hearing. The alumni also strongly objected to the language of the letters, which allegedly accused participants of “groupism, dirty politics, and misguiding students”.Voicing dissent is not a criminal offence in India, they noted, arguing that universities must remain spaces for free inquiry and peaceful dissent.The alumni further urged the BCI to reflect on its conduct and adopt dialogue and discussion, not coercion and domination in dealing with universities and their students. Published - August 14, 2026 08:55 pm IST