Justice Surya Kant was sworn in as India’s 53rd Chief Justice at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with President Droupadi Murmu administering the oath in the presence of top dignitaries. His tenure, a little over a year, will prioritize clearing case backlogs and strengthening mediation to speed up justice delivery across the judiciary.
Justice Surya Kant has officially assumed office as the 53rd Chief Justice of India, succeeding Justice B.R. Gavai at a ceremony attended by national leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He took the oath in Hindi, pledging to uphold the Constitution and discharge his duties faithfully.
Major takeaways
Oath and tenure: Sworn in on November 24, 2025; tenure runs a little over a year, with retirement scheduled for February 9, 2027.
Priority agenda: Reducing Supreme Court pendency—over 90,000 cases—and advancing mediation for faster resolution are top priorities outlined by the new CJI.
Career highlights: Former youngest Advocate General of Haryana; elevated to the Supreme Court in May 2019; part of several landmark judgments.
Notable updates
Dignitaries present: President Murmu administered the oath; PM Modi and senior ministers attended, marking a high-profile transition at the apex court.
Judicial focus: Emphasis on backlog reduction, institutional efficiency, and reforms during his term.
Conclusion: CJI Surya Kant’s tenure begins with a clear focus: faster, more accessible justice through backlog reduction and mediation, reinforcing institutional trust at a pivotal time for India’s judiciary.
Sources: The Hindu; Indian Express, Mid-Day