New Delhi: Bar Council of India chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra has issued a public apology to law students. In his apology, he has said that the students “must always remain free to express their views”
This comes days after BCI’s controversial move against NALSAR’s 2026 graduating batch triggered a backlash and Supreme Court criticism.
In an Independence Day letter addressed to “young friends”, Mishra said the developments of the past few days had caused “concern and anguish” among a section of the student community. He also acknowledged that his words or communication may have hurt them.
“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,” Mishra said, quoted India Today.
“There should be no hesitation in saying so. An expression of regret is not a matter of prestige or ego. It is simply an acknowledgment that the feelings and concerns of our students matter,” he added.
The BCI chief has stressed upon the fact that peaceful disagreement, questioning and protest are part of a constitutional democracy.
He also said law students could make their own decisions. He said the students “do not require anyone to decide for them.”
