

Justice Surya Kant formally assumed the office of the 53rd Chief Justice of India at a distinguished ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Droupadi Murmu presided over this significant event, administering the oath to Justice Kant, who opted to take it in Hindi. This pivotal appointment marks a new chapter in India's judicial landscape, with Justice Surya Kant set to lead the country's highest court until February 9, 2027. His elevation to such a prestigious position underscores a remarkable career trajectory dedicated to legal service and justice.
The ceremonial oath of office was administered by President Droupadi Murmu, signifying the official commencement of Justice Surya Kant's term as Chief Justice. This momentous occasion, hosted at the esteemed Rashtrapati Bhavan, was attended by a distinguished array of political figures and judicial luminaries. The oath itself was delivered by Justice Kant in Hindi, reflecting a personal and cultural connection to the proceedings.
Numerous high-ranking officials and public figures graced the event, including:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Home Minister Amit Shah
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
Vice President CP Radhakrishnan
Former CJ BR Gavai
Former President Ram Nath Kovind
Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri, HD Kumaraswamy, Piyush Goel, JP Nadda
Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar
Justice Surya Kant was born on February 10, 1962, in the village of Petwar, located in the Hisar District of Haryana. His foundational legal education was completed at Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, where he earned his Law degree in 1984. Immediately after graduating, Justice Surya Kant commenced his legal practice in the District Courts of Hisar. In 1985, demonstrating a keen focus on advanced legal work, he transitioned his practice to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Chandigarh. Here, he diligently honed his expertise, particularly specializing in intricate Constitutional, Service, and Civil matters, which laid the groundwork for his future judicial excellence.
Justice Surya Kant's career is marked by a series of significant judicial and administrative appointments. On July 7, 2000, he achieved the notable distinction of being appointed the youngest Advocate General of Haryana, a testament to his legal acumen and dedication. Concurrently, he was designated as a Senior Advocate, further recognizing his advanced standing in the legal profession. He served with commitment as the Advocate General until January 9, 2004, when he was elevated to the esteemed position of a permanent Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Beyond his direct judicial roles, Justice Surya Kant also contributed to legal services administration, serving on the Governing Body of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) from 2007 to 2011.
To provide a quick overview of the distinguished career path and key appointments of Justice Surya Kant, the following table encapsulates his significant milestones and their respective dates. This summary highlights the progression of a remarkable legal professional.
|
Particulars |
Details
|
|---|---|
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Birth Date |
10 February 1962 |
|
Law Degree |
1984 |
|
Started Legal Practice |
1984 |
|
Appointed Advocate General of Haryana |
7 July 2000 |
|
Designated Senior Advocate |
7 July 2000 |
|
Elevated as Permanent Judge, Punjab & Haryana High Court |
9 January 2004 |
|
Served on NALSA Governing Body |
2007 to 2011 |
|
Master's Degree in Law |
2011 |
|
Appointed Chief Justice, Himachal Pradesh High Court |
5 October 2018 |
|
Elevated to Supreme Court of India |
24 May 2019 |
|
Executive Chairman of NALSA |
Since 14 May 2025 |
|
53rd Chief Justice of India |
Took Oath Today |
|
Tenure as CJI Until |
9 February 2027 |