Delhi HC bans law colleges from blocking exams over attendance

The Delhi High Court has ruled that no law student in India can be barred from appearing in examinations due to attendance shortage. The Court directed the Bar Council of India (BCI) to review and revise its mandatory 70% attendance rule to align with modern educational practices and mental health considerations.

The verdict arises from suo motu proceedings initiated after the 2016 suicide of Sushant Rohilla, an Amity Law School student, which sparked national debate over academic pressure and rigid attendance norms. A Division Bench of Justice Prathiba M. Singh and Justice Amit Sharma observed that while attendance is vital, strict enforcement should not cause psychological harm or punitive consequences.

“The goal of legal education is to cultivate learning, not punishment,” the Court remarked, emphasizing that education must foster growth and confidence rather than fear or anxiety. It urged institutions to adopt student-centric policies instead of harsh disciplinary actions like exam detention.

Until the BCI revises its framework, no recognized law college or university may restrict students’ exam eligibility on attendance grounds. The Court also directed institutions to establish Student Grievance Redressal Committees (SGRCs) as per UGC guidelines to address student complaints effectively.

The Bench further recommended that the BCI modernize the concept of mandatory physical attendance in view of hybrid and online learning models, promoting flexibility and compassion in legal education.

During the hearings, Amity Law School argued that it had followed BCI norms and kept the student’s family informed. The Court suggested the institution consider granting ex gratia compensation to the family. The BCI Legal Education Committee was instructed to hold consultations on reforming attendance policies to match international standards.