Justice Surya Kant to Become 53rd Chief Justice of India

Justice Surya Kant, presently the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, has been recommended by outgoing Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai as his successor. The formal communication has been sent to the Centre, paving the way for Justice Kant’s appointment as the 53rd Chief Justice of India. His tenure will commence on 24 November 2025, a day after CJI Gavai’s retirement.

Appointment Process and Constitutional Procedure

As per the Memorandum of Procedure governing judicial appointments, the senior-most Supreme Court judge deemed suitable for the position is elevated as the Chief Justice of India. The Union Law Minister typically seeks the recommendation of the incumbent CJI about a month before retirement. Justice Surya Kant’s name, thus, aligns with established convention, ensuring a smooth transition at the helm of the judiciary.

Judicial Journey and Professional Background

Born on 10 February 1962 in Hisar, Haryana, Justice Surya Kant began his judicial career as an advocate at the Punjab and Haryana High Court before being elevated as a judge in 2001. He later served as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court before his appointment to the Supreme Court on 24 May 2019. Upon assuming office, Justice Kant will serve as CJI for approximately 15 months, until his retirement on 9 February 2027.

Key Contributions and Notable Verdicts

Justice Surya Kant has been part of several landmark judgments impacting constitutional and social jurisprudence. His judicial contributions include the suspension of the colonial-era sedition law, the directive to the Election Commission for transparency in voter rolls, and the push for gender representation in bar associations. He was also involved in cases concerning the Pegasus spyware probe, the security breach during the Prime Minister’s Punjab visit, and the One Rank-One Pension (OROP) scheme for defence personnel.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Justice Surya Kant will be the 53rd Chief Justice of India.
• He was born on 10 February 1962 in Hisar, Haryana.
• He will serve as CJI from 24 November 2025 to 9 February 2027.
• He succeeded Chief Justice B.R. Gavai upon his retirement on 23 November 2025.

Significance of the Transition

Justice Surya Kant’s elevation comes at a crucial time for the judiciary, which continues to address issues of transparency, digitalisation, and judicial reform. His experience in constitutional and administrative law is expected to guide the Supreme Court through a period marked by complex legal and social challenges, reinforcing judicial independence and public trust in India’s apex court.