Supreme Court Ensures Accessibility for Differently-Abled Candidates in CLAT 2027

The Supreme Court has taken significant steps to ensure that the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2027 is accessible for differently-abled candidates. The Consortium of National Law Universities has confirmed that candidates requiring screen reader software will be allowed to use it during the exam. However, the current application form lacks an option for candidates to indicate this need. The court has directed the Consortium to expedite discussions on revised guidelines, with the next hearing scheduled for September. This initiative aims to enhance the examination experience for all candidates, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.

By Ambika Singh Aug 12, 2026, 11:08 IST

Accessibility Measures for CLAT 2027

Recent developments have highlighted the provisions for candidates with disabilities participating in the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2027. The Consortium of National Law Universities (NLUs) has confirmed to the Supreme Court that candidates needing screen reader software will be allowed to use it during the examination. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility for differently-abled individuals taking the CLAT.

The Supreme Court has instructed the Consortium and relevant parties to accelerate discussions on updated guidelines. The next court session regarding this issue is set for September, with the CLAT scheduled for December this year.

**Lack of Screen Reader Option in Application**

During the Supreme Court proceedings, Advocate Amar Jain, representing the petitioner, highlighted that the current CLAT application form does not provide an option for differently-abled candidates to specify their need for screen reader software. He emphasized that candidates should be able to indicate this requirement at the application stage.

The advocate requested the court to mandate the Consortium to incorporate a screen reader option in the CLAT application form, allowing candidates to communicate their needs beforehand and avoid any challenges during the exam.

**Upcoming Hearing Scheduled for September**

The case is being reviewed by a bench that includes CJI Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana. The petition was submitted by Yash Dodani, aiming to improve accessibility for differently-abled candidates in CLAT.

During the hearing, the Consortium of NLUs reiterated that candidates who require screen reader software would be allowed to utilize it during the CLAT. The Supreme Court has urged the involved parties to finalize discussions on the revised guidelines promptly, with the court set to assess the situation in September. The CLAT 2027 is planned for December.