Justice Surya Kant appointed as 53rd Chief Justice of India
Justice Surya Kant has been officially appointed as the 53rd Chief Justice of India and will take oath on November 24, 2025, succeeding Chief Justice B.R. Gavai. He will serve as CJI for nearly 15 months, with his tenure concluding on February 9, 2027, upon reaching the age of retirement at 65 years.
Profile and Background
Justice Surya Kant is a senior judge of the Supreme Court, widely respected for landmark judgments on issues such as Article 370, sedition law, and gender equality. He hails from Hisar, Haryana, making him the first person from the state to assume India’s highest judicial post. His distinguished career includes service as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and Executive Chairman of NALSA.
Appointment Details
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Justice Surya Kant was recommended as the next CJI by outgoing Chief Justice B.R. Gavai, following established convention of seniority.
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His appointment was formally notified by the Ministry of Law and Justice and announced by the Law Minister.
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The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, exercised her constitutional powers to confirm the appointment.
Tenure and Impact
Justice Surya Kant’s term as Chief Justice of India, from November 24, 2025 to February 9, 2027, will be notably longer than those of his recent predecessors, allowing him to leave a prolonged imprint on the Supreme Court’s functioning and judicial reforms.
Justice Surya Kant’s appointment is seen as a significant milestone for both Haryana and the Indian judiciary, promising continuity, legal expertise, and a commitment to social justice.
