In a landmark development for India’s judiciary, Justice Surya Kant has been appointed as the next Chief Justice of India (CJI), succeeding Justice Bhushan R. Gavai, who will retire on November 23, 2025. Justice Kant will assume office on November 24 and will serve as the 51st Chief Justice of India until February 9, 2027.
The Department of Justice, under the Union Law Ministry, issued an official notification confirming his appointment. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal congratulated Justice Kant on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “In exercise of the powers conferred by the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint Shri Justice Surya Kant, Judge of the Supreme Court of India, as the Chief Justice of India with effect from 24th November 2025. I convey my heartiest congratulations and best wishes to him.”
Who is Justice Surya Kant?
Born on February 10, 1962, in Hisar district of Haryana, Justice Surya Kant comes from a humble, middle-class background. His legal journey began after obtaining a law degree from Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak. Over the decades, he earned a reputation as a sharp legal mind with a strong commitment to justice and transparency.
He was elevated to the Supreme Court of India on May 24, 2019, and has since played a key role in several landmark judgments. Prior to that, he served as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, where he was widely respected for his administrative efficiency and innovative judicial reforms.
Landmark Judgments and Legal Legacy
Justice Kant has been part of several historic benches that shaped India’s legal and constitutional landscape:
Sedition Law Bench: Justice Kant was among the judges who put the colonial-era sedition law on hold, ordering that no new FIRs be registered under it until the government completes its review — a move hailed as a bold step toward protecting free speech.
Electoral Transparency: He urged the Election Commission of India to disclose details of the 65 lakh voters excluded in Bihar, underscoring his commitment to fair and transparent elections.
Women’s Representation in Bar Councils: In another significant order, Justice Kant directed that one-third of seats in Bar Associations, including the Supreme Court Bar Association, be reserved for women lawyers — a decision seen as a milestone for gender equality in the legal profession.
A Tenure of Hope and Judicial Integrity
Justice Kant’s elevation as the CJI comes at a crucial time when India’s judiciary is addressing issues like judicial transparency, case backlog, and technology-driven reforms. His tenure of nearly 15 months is expected to focus on strengthening institutional accountability, improving access to justice, and modernising court infrastructure.
Known for his calm demeanour and firm approach in the courtroom, Justice Kant’s leadership is expected to uphold the Supreme Court’s tradition of independence and fairness while steering it towards a more inclusive and efficient future.
Key Highlights
◆Justice Surya Kant becomes the 51st Chief Justice of India.
◆To take oath on November 24, 2025, succeeding Justice B.R. Gavai.
◆Tenure to continue until February 9, 2027.
Played key roles in cases related to sedition law, voter transparency, and gender equality in bar associations.
Known for his progressive judicial philosophy and commitment to reforms.
