In the process of judicial succession as Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai formally recommended the name of Justice Surya Kant, the second-most senior judge of the Supreme Court, for appointment as the next Chief Justice of India. The recommendation was conveyed to the Union Government in keeping with the established judicial convention.
In accordance with long-standing tradition, the Union Law Ministry had written to Chief Justice Gavai, who is set to retire on November 23, requesting his recommendation for the appointment of his successor. The process, rooted in the Memorandum of Procedure governing judicial appointments, ensures continuity in the office of the Chief Justice of India based on the principle of seniority among Supreme Court judges.
Upon approval by the Government, Justice Surya Kant is expected to take oath as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on November 24, 2025. He will hold office until February 9, 2027, marking a relatively extended tenure at the helm of the judiciary.
Justice Surya Kant, presently serving as the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, has had a distinguished judicial career marked by significant contributions to constitutional and administrative law. Before his elevation to the Supreme Court, he served as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and earlier as a judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
Known for his sharp legal acumen and progressive judicial approach, Justice Surya Kant has delivered several landmark rulings on constitutional rights, governance, and social justice, earning respect across the legal fraternity.
Justice Surya Kant’s elevation to the position of Chief Justice of India is expected to further the Supreme Court’s commitment to institutional integrity and judicial independence. His tenure will likely oversee several crucial constitutional matters and continue the ongoing efforts toward improving judicial infrastructure and transparency.
With this transition, the Supreme Court prepares for a seamless change in leadership, reinforcing the convention of seniority and stability in the highest judicial office of the country.
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