NLSIU Cancels Convocation For 2026 Batch Citing 'Unavoidable Circumstances' - Live Law

**NLSIU Cancels Convocation for 2026 Batch Citing “Unavoidable Circumstances”**

*Bengaluru, August 27 2026* – The National Law School of India University (NLSIU) announced on Monday that the convocation for its 2026 graduating batch has been called off, citing “unavoidable circumstances.” In a brief circular sent to students and faculty, the institute said the decision was taken after “thorough deliberation” and that a revised schedule would be communicated in due course. The move marks the first time the premier law school has postponed its annual graduation ceremony since its inception in 1987.

The cancellation comes amid a growing controversy over the school’s invitation to Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant to attend the ceremony. Student groups, including the NLSIU Student Union, publicly objected, arguing that the presence of the nation’s top judicial officer could compromise the perceived independence of the institution and potentially politicise the event. Protests intensified after a petition circulated on social media demanding the revocation of the CJI’s invitation. In response, the administration initially defended its decision, citing the CJI’s longstanding tradition of addressing convocation audiences, but later reversed course amid mounting pressure. The Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice R.K. Jain, expressed disappointment at the “unfortunate turn of events” and called for dialogue between the administration and students.

Legal commentators have noted that the episode underscores the delicate balance Indian law schools must maintain between fostering ties with the judiciary and preserving academic autonomy. NLSIU’s Vice‑Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) S. Ravindra, affirmed that the institute remains committed to “upholding the sanctity of its academic rituals” and assured stakeholders that an alternative format—potentially a virtual ceremony—will be explored. The university has also pledged to engage with student representatives to address concerns before finalising any future convocation plans.