NALSAR Convocation Controversy: Dr. Anthony Raju’s View
NALSAR Convocation Controversy: Dr. Anthony Raju’s View
The reported decision by NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, to invite Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant as the Chief Guest for its forthcoming convocation has generated an important debate about academic freedom, constitutional values, institutional dignity and the right to dissent.
According to reports, the university has confirmed that an invitation has been extended to the CJI, while the date of the convocation is yet to be finalised. A section of students has reportedly opposed the invitation, citing concerns over recent observations made by Justice Surya Kant in proceedings relating to allegations of police excesses during protests.
Dr. Anthony Raju’s View
Dr. Anthony Raju, Advocate, Supreme Court of India, said:
«“Students of a premier law university have every democratic and constitutional right to express disagreement. However, dissent must remain respectful, informed and based on constitutional principles. At the same time, the university has a responsibility to protect academic freedom and ensure that the convocation remains a dignified celebration of legal education and constitutional values.”»
A law university is not merely a place for obtaining a degree. It is where future lawyers learn the meaning of the Constitution, rule of law, liberty, equality, justice and responsible dissent.
Therefore, neither a constitutional office nor the voice of students should be treated as beyond scrutiny. A mature democracy must have space for both authority and dissent.
If the CJI accepts the invitation, the convocation could become an opportunity for a meaningful constitutional dialogue—where difficult questions can be raised respectfully and answered with openness, dignity and constitutional wisdom.
The answer to disagreement should not be confrontation. The answer should be dialogue, constitutionalism and mutual respect.
About Dr. Anthony Raju
Dr. Anthony Raju, Advocate, Supreme Court of India, is widely regarded as one of India’s respected criminal and human rights advocates, with extensive experience in complex criminal matters and human-rights issues.
He is known for his legal work and advocacy concerning POCSO cases, rape and sexual-offence cases, dowry-death cases, bail matters, criminal trials and constitutional rights, along with issues concerning justice, police accountability, protection of individual rights and access to justice.
He is the Chairman, All India Council of Human Rights, Liberties & Social Justice (AICHLS) and has been actively associated with initiatives relating to human rights, legal awareness, constitutional values and social justice.
Dr. Anthony Raju
Advocate, Supreme Court of India
Chairman, All India Council of Human Rights, Liberties & Social Justice (AICHLS)
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