
CJI BR Gavai formally recommends Justice Surya Kant as the next Chief Justice of India, following the established convention of seniority and constitutional process.
Why in NewsJustice Surya Kant recommended as next Chief Justice of India by CJI BR Gavai, marking the next transition in the Supreme Court of India leadership . CJI BR Gavai recommends Justice Surya Kant as next CJI. |
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Overview
Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai has formally recommended Justice Surya Kant as his successor, in accordance with the established convention of seniority in the Supreme Court of India . The recommendation was sent to the Union Law Ministry ahead of Justice Gavai’s retirement on November 23, 2025 . Justice Surya Kant, currently serving as a judge of the Supreme Court of India, will hold office as Chief Justice of India until February 9, 2027 .
Born on February 10, 1962, in Hisar, Haryana, Justice Surya Kant holds a law degree from Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak and began his legal career in 1984 .
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Key Aspects
Before being elevated to the Supreme Court of India, Justice Surya Kant held significant judicial and legal positions showcasing a long and distinguished career in Indian judiciary . His journey reflects his consistent contribution to justice delivery and legal reform .
- Began his legal practice at Hisar District Court in 1984 .
- Shifted to the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 1985 .
- Designated as Senior Advocate in March 2001 .
- Served as Advocate General of Haryana before elevation as Judge of Punjab and Haryana High Court on January 9, 2004 .
- Appointed Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court on October 5, 2018 .
- Elevated to the Supreme Court of India on May 24, 2019 .
Legal Insights
The appointment process of the Chief Justice of India follows constitutional and procedural safeguards to maintain judicial independence . It is guided by specific legal provisions and established conventions ensuring transparency and continuity within the judiciary .
- Article 124(2) of the Constitution of India empowers the President to appoint the Chief Justice of India and other judges of the Supreme Court of India .
- As per the Memorandum of Procedure (MoP), the outgoing CJI recommends the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court for appointment as the next CJI .
- The Union Law Ministry processes the recommendation and forwards it to the Prime Minister, who advises the President to make the appointment .
- This process upholds the principle of judicial seniority and independence ensuring continuity in the functioning of the Supreme Court of India .
Court’s Verdict
Though not a judicial verdict, CJI BR Gavai’s recommendation of Justice Surya Kant to be the next Chief Justice of India initiates the formal constitutional process of succession . Once approved by the President, it will mark a smooth and orderly transition in the leadership of the Supreme Court of India, with Justice Kant serving for over 14 months .
Source – Supreme Court of India
Read also – Constitution of India
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