Justice Surya Kant is set to take charge as the 53rd Chief Justice of India following a recommendation by the incumbent CJI, Justice Bhushan R. Gavai. His tenure is expected to start from November 24, 2025, and continue until February 9, 2027, pending final approval. Justice Gavai commended his fair judicial outlook and his commitment to delivering justice to people from all walks of life.

Early Life and education

Justice Surya Kant hails from Hisar in Haryana, where he was born on February 10, 1962. He completed his early education in his hometown and later pursued law at Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, graduating in 1984. He started his legal journey in the Hisar district courts and moved to practice at the Punjab and Haryana High Court the following year.

With notable expertise in constitutional, civil, and service-related cases, he represented several important government institutions and public bodies. His legal skills earned him quick recognition across the state. At the age of 38, he became Haryana’s youngest Advocate General in 2000. He was designated as a Senior Advocate shortly after in acknowledgement of his professional excellence.

Rise in the judiciary

Justice Surya Kant joined the Punjab and Haryana High Court as a judge in January 2004, where he served for more than a decade, contributing significantly to people-centric and policy-driven decisions. He assumed the role of Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court in October 2018, and was later elevated to the Supreme Court of India in May 2019.

During his tenure in the apex court, he has played an important role in several constitutional matters and has been part of crucial verdicts shaping national reforms.He has contributed to more than 1,000 judgments dealing with constitutional governance, human rights, and administrative matters. He also heads the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, which focuses on strengthening access to legal aid for the public.

A landmark for Haryana

Justice Surya Kant will be the first person from Haryana to head the Indian judiciary. His appointment will come as a moment of pride for the state and a testimony to his commitment and perseverance throughout his legal career. His rise as Chief Justice will also reinforce the representation of voices from diverse regions within India’s highest judicial leadership.