Justice Surya Kant: 53rd Chief Justice of India – Biography, Decisions & Tenure

1. Early Life, Education & Humble Beginnings in Hisar

Justice Surya Kant, who assumed office as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on 24 November 2025, represents a remarkable story of merit and institutional perseverance. Born on 10 February 1962 in Petwar village of Hisar district in Haryana, he hails from a modest middle-class family. His father, Madan Gopal Sharma, was a dedicated Sanskrit teacher.

He completed his schooling in government institutions in Haryana with basic facilities. He earned his graduation (B.A. in Geography) from Government Post Graduate College, Hisar, in 1981, and obtained his LL.B. degree from Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, in 1984. Later, in 2011, while serving as a sitting High Court judge, he earned his Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from Kurukshetra University, securing First Class First distinction.

2. Early Legal Career: From District Court to Advocate General

Justice Surya Kant began his legal practice in July 1984 at the District Courts in Hisar before shifting to the Punjab and Haryana High Court in Chandigarh in 1985. Specializing in Constitutional, Service, and Civil law, he rapidly established a reputation as a highly meticulous advocate.

On 7 July 2000, he was appointed Advocate General of Haryana—becoming the youngest person in the state’s history to hold the constitutional office. He was designated a Senior Advocate in March 2001 and represented various statutory boards, corporations, and universities.

3. Judicial Progression: High Courts to Supreme Court of India

4. Master of Roster & Legacy as Chief Justice of India

As Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant holds the pivotal role of Master of the Roster and heads the Supreme Court Collegium recommending judicial appointments across the country. Throughout his judicial tenure, he has emphasized legal aid accessibility, institutional transparency, and practical balance between constitutional mandates and effective governance.

Justice Surya Kant is scheduled to demit office on 9 February 2027 upon reaching the constitutional retirement age of 65 years, completing a distinguished 14-month tenure at the helm of Indian judiciary.