Justice Surya Kant prepares to step into the Chief Justice’s chair — here’s what to know
Justice Surya Kant will soon take charge as the next Chief Justice of India. Chief Justice Bhushan R. Gavai has recommended his name as successor. After the government issues the formal notification, Justice Kant will assume office on November 24. His tenure will continue until February 9, 2027.
Chief Justice Gavai praised his colleague while forwarding the recommendation. He said Justice Kant’s background and experience make him ideal for the top post. “Like me, Justice Kant comes from a class that has faced struggles at every stage,” Gavai said in an interview with Hindustan Times. “That experience helps him understand the pain of those who rely on the judiciary for justice.”
From Hisar to the Supreme Court
Born on February 10, 1962, in Hisar, Haryana, Justice Surya Kant built his career through determination and discipline. He studied at Government Post Graduate College, Hisar, and later completed his law degree from Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, in 1984.
He began his legal practice at the Hisar district court and shifted to the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 1985. Over the years, he handled constitutional, civil, and service matters. His balanced advocacy and sharp reasoning earned him respect in the legal community. He represented several major public institutions, including universities and banks.
In 2000, at just 38, he became Haryana’s youngest Advocate General. His appointment marked a turning point in his career. The following year, he was designated as a Senior Advocate.
Climbing the Judicial Ladder
Justice Surya Kant’s judicial journey began in January 2004 when he was appointed as a judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. For more than 14 years, he handled several important cases with fairness and clarity. His judgments often reflected both constitutional depth and social concern.
In October 2018, he took charge as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. A few months later, in May 2019, he was elevated to the Supreme Court of India. Since then, Justice Kant has been part of several Constitution Benches and delivered key rulings. He contributed to the 2023 verdict that upheld the abrogation of Article 370.
His record includes over a thousand judgments covering constitutional law, human rights, and administrative issues. Known for his straightforward approach, he often emphasizes efficiency and empathy in judicial work.
Leadership Beyond the Bench
Justice Kant currently serves as Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, a role he took in November 2024. He also acts as Visitor of the National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi. Earlier, he served two terms with the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and contributed to several law education initiatives.
A Milestone for Haryana
Once he takes oath, Justice Surya Kant will become the first person from Haryana to hold the office of Chief Justice of India. His appointment continues the seniority-based tradition under the Memorandum of Procedure that guides judicial succession.
With a career marked by perseverance and fairness, Justice Kant now prepares to lead India’s judiciary at a crucial time for constitutional governance.
