CJI Affirms Judiciary's Role in Safeguarding Students' Right to Protest

The Chief Justice of India has said the judiciary remains committed to protecting the right of students to protest, underscoring the courts' role as a guardian of fundamental freedoms.

The statement came during an interaction with students at Chanakya National Law University (CNLU) in Patna. The Chief Justice chose to hold what was described as an unfiltered session, telling those present that he preferred a frank question-and-answer format over a formal address.

The remarks place the focus on the constitutional guarantees of free expression and peaceful assembly, and on the specific context of student activism, which has repeatedly been tested in courts across the country.

By opting for an open exchange, the Chief Justice also signalled a willingness to engage directly with law students on questions of rights and public dissent. The event at CNLU, a prominent law school in Bihar's capital, drew attention for the candid nature of the discussion.

No further details of the interaction were immediately available.