CJI flags ‘external forces’ that threatened to disrupt NLSIU convocation

Addressing the graduates, the CJI urged them to uphold the values of the legal profession. He said lawyers must have the courage to defend what is just, remain intellectually independent and listen to differing viewpoints.

NEW DELHI: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said “certain external forces” had created uncertainty over the National Law School of India University’s (NLSIU) 34th annual convocation in Bengaluru. Addressing the NLSUI convocation on Saturday, the CJI said that for a while, it seemed the event might not take place as planned. The convocation was eventually held as scheduled, with degrees conferred on graduating students.

“A few unexpected and unfortunate circumstances, driven by certain external forces, brought with them a sense of uncertainty, and for a while, it seemed that this occasion might not unfold quite as we had hoped,” said the CJI, who is also the university’s chancellor. His remarks came amid recent turbulence surrounding the institution. However, he did not specify the external forces or the circumstances that had threatened the event.

Addressing the graduates, the CJI urged them to uphold the values of the legal profession. He said lawyers must have the courage to defend what is just, remain intellectually independent and listen to differing viewpoints.

“I often find myself ruminating on how the legal profession is not for the faint of heart. It demands not only mastery of statutes and precedent but also the courage to defend what is just and the humility to listen to voices that are often unheard,” he said.

CJI Surya Kant asked the graduates to remain fearless, hear others before judging them and disagree without undermining anyone’s dignity. He also cautioned them against compromising their principles for convenience or taking shortcuts.

“There will come times when compromise checks, where expediency entices, and when others take easy shortcuts. And it is in those moments that you must let the wisdom imparted here be your compass and stay true to the values you have imbibed in this eminent institution,” he added.

Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, who also attended the convocation, urged the graduates to view law as a responsibility rather than merely a profession. In a post on X, he called on them to uphold the Constitution, protect citizens’ rights and ensure justice remained accessible, affordable and timely.

“As these young minds embark on their professional journeys, I urge them to see the law not merely as a profession, but as a responsibility to uphold the Constitution, protect the rights of every citizen and ensure that justice is accessible, affordable and timely,” Shivakumar wrote.

He also outlined plans by the Karnataka government to strengthen the state’s legal ecosystem. These include a start-up law clinic at NLSIU to provide pro bono legal assistance to young entrepreneurs. The government also plans to establish a dedicated institute for judicial service examination training and continuing education for young lawyers.