President Appoints Justice Surya Kant as the Next Chief Justice of India

The President of India has appointed Justice Surya Kant as the next Chief Justice of India (CJI), marking a significant moment for the Indian judiciary. This announcement was made by the Union Law and Justice Minister and formalized through a notification by the President under Article 124(2) of the Constitution. Justice Kant will assume office as the 53rd Chief Justice of India starting November 24, 2025, following the retirement of Chief Justice B.R. Gavai.​

President Appoints Justice Surya Kant as the Next Chief Justice of India

Justice Surya Kant’s appointment as the next Chief Justice of India is widely celebrated due to his distinguished career and reputation for delivering landmark judgments. He began his legal practice in Haryana and rose through the ranks as Advocate General, Judge in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, and Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court before being elevated to the Supreme Court in 2019. Justice Surya Kant is known for his clarity on constitutional matters, empathy for social issues, and focus on institutional accountability.

Chief Justice Appointment Process and Constitutional Significance

The appointment follows the established tradition where the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court is recommended by the outgoing CJI for the position. The President then exercises constitutional authority to seal the appointment. This process upholds the autonomy and continuity of the judiciary in India, ensuring a seamless transition in leadership at the highest judicial office.​

Career Highlights of Justice Surya Kant

Justice Surya Kant is known for his illustrious career and contributions to the Indian legal landscape:

• Early Career: Justice Kant graduated from Kurukshetra University and completed his law degree at Maharshi Dayanand University. He began his practice in the Haryana and Punjab High Courts and quickly earned a reputation for his legal acumen and commitment to public interest litigation.​
• High Court Tenures: He served as a Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, later being elevated as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court.
• Elevation to Supreme Court: Justice Kant was appointed as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India, where he has been involved in several landmark judgments spanning constitutional matters, social justice, and human rights.

Tenure of Justice Surya Kant

Justice Surya Kant will serve as CJI for about 14 months, retiring on February 9, 2027. His elevation is widely regarded as an endorsement of his legal expertise, integrity, and balanced approach to complex legal issues. The legal fraternity and the nation expect his leadership to further consolidate the role of the Supreme Court as the guardian of the Constitution.​