CJI Surya Kant: NLSIU Convocation Speech Stresses Courage, Humility

• CJI Surya Kant delivered the Presidential Address at the 34th NLSIU Convocation on October 17, 2026, as Chancellor.
• His speech emphasized that the legal profession requires courage, humility, and fairness, including "hearing before judging."
• The CJI's attendance followed earlier protests by NLSIU students and alumni in solidarity with NALSAR students over his comments on NEET protests and a withdrawn BCI order.
• He described law as an evolving entity and legal education as a "crucible" for diverse ideas and dialogue.
• CJI Kant urged graduates to be "heralds of hope" and acknowledged the sacrifices of their parents.

The Chief Justice underscored the importance of intellectual independence, advocating for fairness by urging graduates to 'hear before judging,' to distinguish individuals from their stances, and to engage in disagreement without ever diminishing another person’s dignity.

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru, hosted its 34th Convocation ceremony at the Jnana Jyoti Auditorium. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant presided over the event, delivering the Presidential Address in his capacity as the institution's Chancellor. In his Justice Surya Kant NLSIU address, he conveyed a powerful message to the graduating class, emphasizing that the legal profession is not for the faint of heart. He stressed that it demands both profound courage and genuine humility from its practitioners.

The CJI's speech highlighted that the practice of law extends beyond mere technical knowledge of statutes and precedents. He articulated that it requires the bravery to champion justice and the modesty to lend an ear to perspectives that are often marginalized. Furthermore, he underscored the importance of intellectual independence, advocating for fairness by urging graduates to 'hear before judging,' to distinguish individuals from their stances, and to engage in disagreement without ever diminishing another person’s dignity. He also acknowledged the unwavering support and sacrifices made by the parents of the graduating students, recognizing their pivotal role in the students' achievements. The convocation also featured Arundhati Nag, Co-Founder and Artistic Advisor at Ranga Shankara, and a recipient of the Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi awards, who delivered the main Convocation Address as the Chief Guest.

CJI Surya Kant's presence at the 34th National Law School of India University convocation was initially subject to uncertainty, following protests earlier in the year by a segment of NLSIU students and alumni. These objections, which emerged in August, were rooted in solidarity with students from NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad. The protests specifically targeted comments made by the CJI concerning the NEET Paper Leak protests, as well as a now-rescinded order from the Bar Council of India (BCI) that sought to halt the enrollment of NALSAR students.

A statement signed by 165 graduating students articulated their strong disapproval, asserting that inviting high-ranking officials who had publicly expressed disdain and condescension towards students was "offensive, humiliating and a mockery." The students and alumni condemned the BCI's actions, which they deemed "unconstitutional and illegal," and expressed admiration for NALSAR students' courage in challenging authority. Despite the controversy, the university had officially confirmed earlier in the month that the CJI would attend and preside over the ceremony, a role customary for the Chancellor. Opposition was also voiced against the attendance of Bar Council of India chairman Manan Kumar Mishra, who serves as the chairman of the general council.

In his CJI Surya Kant NLSIU convocation speech, Justice Kant delved into the profound purpose of legal education and the dynamic nature of the law itself. He conveyed that law is not a static entity but rather a living framework that evolves and breathes through the actions and intellect of those who practice it. The Chief Justice emphasized that every legal action—from arguing cases and drafting contracts to providing counsel and rendering judgments—contributes significantly to the broader architecture of justice within the nation.

He characterized law school as a "crucible" where diverse ideas clash, deeply held convictions are tested, and the very essence of meaningful dialogue is forged. The CJI on legal education purpose clarified that its scope extends far beyond merely mastering the principles of criminal or constitutional law. Instead, he posited that its true value lies in the invigorating experience of encountering individuals who perceive the world through different lenses. Ultimately, the CJI concluded his address by reminding the graduates that the nation looks to them not only as skilled practitioners of law but also as vital "heralds of hope" for the future.

This article serves as a reminder of the foundational ethical principles and professional conduct expected of legal practitioners, as articulated by the Chief Justice of India. While not introducing new legal obligations, it reinforces the importance of humility, courage, and fairness in legal practice and judicial proceedings, which lawyers should internalize and uphold.

Source: Original reporting via legal news outlet