Over 400 NALSAR alumni have criticised the Bar Council of India over its withdrawn order seeking an inquiry into students and faculty over their views on a convocation invitation.

More than 400 alumni of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, have criticised the Bar Council of India (BCI) over its now-withdrawn directions seeking an inquiry into students and faculty.

In an open letter, the alumni alleged that the BCI’s initial communication, including a temporary bar on enrolment of 2026 graduates, was coercive and raised concerns over free speech and student well-being.

They argued that the students’ objections regarding a proposed convocation invitation were an internal university matter and questioned the BCI’s authority to intervene.

The controversy has renewed debate over the balance between professional regulation and academic freedom. For law students in particular, alumni said institutional disagreements should be addressed without creating fear or pressure around legitimate expression.