A lecture by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant at Birkbeck, University of London, on Thursday was disrupted after some audience members attempted to question him on allegations of shrinking space for dissent in India, leading to a tense exchange with event organisers.

Reacting to the incident, the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom condemned what it described as “indecorous” conduct by certain attendees, saying such behaviour was inconsistent with the principles of respectful public discourse.

In a statement posted on X, the High Commission said, “On June 4, 2026, Hon’ble Chief Justice of India attended an event at the University of London, Birkbeck, at the invitation of the organisers to deliver a lecture on ‘Artificial Intelligence and International Law".

The embassy said the event was followed by an engaging discussion before a “certain individual” attempted to disrupt the proceedings. It stressed that while disagreements are a hallmark of democracy, they must be voiced in a civil and respectful manner.

“A lively discussion followed his address. Thereafter, a certain individual tried to disrupt the event. Such indecorous behavior is unacceptable and inconsistent with respectful engagement that should govern public discourse. Differences of opinion are a natural part of a democratic society. However, they must be expressed in a manner that is civil and respectful", the statement said.

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What Happened During the CJI’s Lecture?

The controversy erupted during the question-and-answer session following CJI Kant’s lecture on “Artificial Intelligence and International Law”.

Videos circulating online on social media show an attendee raising concerns about what she described as growing hostility towards dissent in India, citing observations made by legal experts and international observers.

“We now hear from a number of legal observers within the country as well as internationally that there’s a great deal of concern about growing hostility to dissent within India. And it does seem that this hostility is somewhat reflected in His Lordship’s speech and it’s very well publicised", she said.

Another audience member attempted to ask the CJI about his “cockroaches” and “parasites” remarks made last month. However, the organisers intervened and declined to take up the question, saying it fell outside the scope of the event.

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“With all due respect, I would not be able to take up that question since the topic is concerning artificial intelligence and international law", one of the organisers said.


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