Bar Council of India Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra has apologised to law students amid the controversy over action taken against NALSAR students.
NEW DELHI: Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra on Saturday apologised to law students amid the controversy surrounding the action taken against students of NALSAR University of Law. In a letter addressed to law students, Mishra said he regretted if any of his statements or letters related to the controversy had hurt their sentiments.
Mishra acknowledged that the developments of the past few days had caused concern and distress among a section of the student community. He said students’ concerns must be heard with patience, sensitivity and respect whenever they feel hurt or aggrieved.
“If anything I said or wrote in connection with the present controversy has hurt the sentiments of our law students, I sincerely regret it and apologise,” Mishra said in his letter.
He added that expressing regret should not be seen as a matter of prestige or ego, but rather as an acknowledgement that the feelings and concerns of students matter.
Students should have freedom to decide on convocation attendance
Mishra also addressed the issue of convocation ceremonies, saying that participation should be entirely a student’s personal choice.
“Convocation is an important moment in the life of a student. Whether to attend or not should be entirely the student’s own decision, without any pressure on anyone,” he said.
He further stressed the importance of dialogue in resolving disagreements and said such differences should not be given a political colour through external influence.
“Law students are the future of the country’s justice system. Their independent thinking and ability to make rational decisions are their greatest strengths,” Mishra said.
What is the NALSAR controversy?
The controversy emerged following statements and letters issued by the BCI concerning certain issues involving NALSAR and law students. The developments triggered a strong reaction from students, who felt that their views and rights were not being adequately understood or addressed.
The issue subsequently drew wider attention among law students across the country and was also discussed in legal circles.
Amid growing criticism and pressure from students, BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra stepped forward to address the concerns. His apology is being viewed as an attempt to ease tensions and reopen dialogue with the student community.
The episode has also brought renewed attention to the importance of student autonomy, freedom of expression and constructive dialogue between regulatory bodies and law schools.
