Justice Surya Kant Takes Oath as 53rd Chief Justice of India: Pledges to Reduce Case Backlogs and Reform Judicial System

Nov 24, 2025 09:17 am CST

Justice Surya Kant has been sworn in as India's 53rd Chief Justice, beginning a 14-month tenure focused on reducing the nation's 5.29 crore pending cases. The former Punjab and Haryana High Court judge plans to establish Constitution Benches, strengthen mediation processes, and engage with High Courts nationwide to address systemic challenges in the judicial system. Appointed by President Droupadi Murmu on the recommendation of outgoing CJI Bhushan Gavai, Justice Kant brings extensive legal experience to the role of India's top judicial officer.