A significant transition in the Indian judiciary occurred today with Justice Surya Kant taking the oath as the 53rd Chief Justice of India. He steps into this role following the retirement of Justice B.R. Gavai. The oath was administered by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in the presence of Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and various union ministers. Justice Kant’s appointment, confirmed on October 30, means he will lead the Supreme Court for approximately 15 months, until February 9, 2027. His judicial journey has included participation in pivotal decisions, such as those related to the abrogation of Article 370, changes in Bihar’s electoral rolls, and the Pegasus snooping allegations. Demonstrating profound cultural values, Justice Surya Kant honored his elders by touching their feet post-ceremony. The international judicial landscape was prominently featured, with delegations from Bhutan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Nepal, and Sri Lanka joining in the proceedings, highlighting the global significance of India’s highest court.
