Justice Surya Kant was sworn in as the 53rd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on 24 November 2025, marking a significant moment in India’s judicial history. His elevation comes after the retirement of Chief Justice B.R. Gavai. Justice Surya Kant is expected to serve until February 2027, giving him a meaningful tenure to influence major constitutional and social justice decisions.
This appointment is historic as he becomes the first CJI from Haryana, a milestone for the state and for India’s judicial landscape.
Early Life & Education
Justice Surya Kant’s story stands as one of the most inspiring journeys in the Indian legal system.
- Born: 10 February 1962
- Birthplace: Petwar village, Hisar district, Haryana
- Family Background: He comes from a simple middle-class family. His father was a Sanskrit teacher, which greatly influenced his discipline and academic interest.
Education
- Completed graduation from Government Post Graduate College, Hisar
- Earned LL.B. from Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak
- Later pursued LL.M. from Kurukshetra University, securing First Class First — a rare achievement for someone already serving in the judiciary
His academic background reflects a strong foundation in constitutional law, ethics, and public policy — qualities that shaped his judicial thinking.
Early Legal Career
Justice Surya Kant started his career in 1984 at the District Court in Hisar. Soon after, he moved to Chandigarh to practice at the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
As Advocate
- Built a reputation for handling constitutional, service-related and civil matters
- Known for clear arguments and deep understanding of administrative law
Advocate General of Haryana
In 2000, he was appointed the Advocate General of Haryana, becoming one of the youngest to hold that office. This role allowed him to argue major cases on public policy and governance, significantly expanding his legal stature.
Judicial Career: Rise Through the Ranks
Judge, Punjab & Haryana High Court (2004–2018)
Justice Surya Kant was appointed as a judge in the Punjab & Haryana High Court in 2004. Over the next 14 years, he delivered several influential judgments focused on:
- Prison reforms
- Protection of human rights
- Service law
- Education and equality
- Accountability in public institutions
One of his notable initiatives included advocating humane treatment for prisoners, including family and conjugal visits — a progressive approach emphasizing reform over punishment.
Chief Justice, Himachal Pradesh High Court (2018–2019)
In 2018, he became the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, where he:
- Modernized court procedures
- Strengthened legal aid mechanisms
- Worked to reduce case backlog
- Made courts more accessible to people in remote areas
Judge, Supreme Court of India (2019–2025)
Justice Surya Kant was elevated to the Supreme Court in May 2019. As a Supreme Court judge, he was part of several high-impact cases involving:
- Constitutional challenges
- Civil liberties
- Electoral reforms
- Surveillance and privacy
- Criminal law reforms
- Digital fraud cases
His balanced approach often reflected the belief that justice must be timely, practical, and citizen-centric.
Key Judgments & Major Cases
1. Article 370 Case
Justice Surya Kant was part of the bench that upheld the government’s decision on the reorganisation of Jammu & Kashmir. His role in the case demonstrated his constitutional clarity and thoughtful reasoning.
2. Sedition Law Standstill
He played a crucial role in keeping sedition cases in abeyance until the law was reviewed. This was one of the most significant interventions in protecting free speech in recent times.
3. Pegasus Surveillance Case
Justice Surya Kant pushed for transparency and accountability by supporting an independent inquiry committee when allegations of spyware misuse surfaced.
4. Electoral Reforms & Voter Roll Revision
He presided over critical cases involving Aadhaar-voter ID issues, electoral roll revisions, and the fairness of election processes.
5. Gender Justice in Muslim Personal Law
He heard petitions challenging the practice of Talaq-e-Hasan, indicating that issues of personal law and gender rights require sensitive and constitutional handling.
6. Builder-Bank Fraud Affecting Homebuyers
Justice Kant supported wider investigations into fraudulent builder practices that left thousands of middle-class homebuyers struggling financially. His decisions aimed to uphold fairness for ordinary citizens.
7. Free Speech & Social Media Responsibility
He handled cases involving online content creators, emphasising that free speech must be exercised responsibly and digital platforms should maintain some form of ethical conduct.
8. Digital Arrest Scams & Cybercrime
Justice Surya Kant took stern action in cases involving cyber fraud, directing national agencies to ensure better protection for citizens from digital crimes.
Justice Surya Kant as Chief Justice of India: What to Expect
Based on his past work, some of his likely priorities as CJI include:
1. Strengthening Citizen Rights
Balancing individual freedoms with public order and national security.
2. Criminal Justice Reforms
Focus on humane prison conditions, speedy trials, and fair policing.
3. Digital Governance
Setting strong legal foundations for cybercrime, privacy, and social-media accountability.
4. Electoral Integrity
Ensuring transparent voter databases and clean electoral rolls.
5. Faster Justice Delivery
He has openly criticised delayed judgments — highlighting his commitment to speed and efficiency.
6. Constitutional Balance
Expected to maintain a thoughtful balance between judicial independence and governance needs.
Lesser-Known Facts About Justice Surya Kant
- He is the first-ever Chief Justice of India from Haryana.
- His father was a Sanskrit teacher, and that influence shaped his disciplined lifestyle.
- He earned First Class First in LL.M. while already serving as a judge.
- He is known for encouraging young lawyers and interns with practical legal training.
- Known for strong courtroom clarity — often simplifying complex legal arguments.
- Believes that justice is meaningful only when it reaches common citizens.
Conclusion
Justice Surya Kant’s elevation as the 53rd Chief Justice of India marks a new chapter in the Indian judiciary. His journey — from a small village in Haryana to the Supreme Court’s highest chair — reflects dedication, depth of knowledge, and a strong belief in practical justice. With his long tenure ahead, he is expected to steer the court through crucial constitutional, technological, and social shifts that will shape India’s legal landscape for years to come.
