Justice Surya Kant Recommended as India’s First CJI from Haryana

Justice Surya Kant has been recommended as the next Chief Justice of India, making him the first individual from Haryana to assume this prestigious role. Chief Justice Bhushan R. Gavai announced the recommendation on November 20, 2023, ahead of his retirement on November 23, 2023. Justice Kant’s appointment marks a significant milestone in India’s judicial history, reflecting his long-standing commitment to justice, humility, and empathy.

Chief Justice Gavai expressed confidence in Justice Kant’s capabilities, stating, “He is suited and competent in all aspects to take the helm.” Gavai emphasized that Kant’s background and experiences equip him to understand the struggles faced by those who rely on the judiciary for protection of their rights. This sentiment resonates with Kant’s own journey, which has been characterized by a deep-seated dedication to social justice and fairness.

Justice Kant’s distinguished legal career began in the early 2000s when he became Haryana’s youngest Advocate General at the age of 38. His skills and sincerity quickly garnered respect within the legal community. In 2004, he was appointed as a judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, further solidifying his reputation as a prominent legal figure. Those close to him recount that he did not initially aspire to be a judge; rather, it was the encouragement of Justice A.B. Saharya that led him to embrace this path.

The transition from a thriving legal practice to the judiciary was not without challenges. At the time, Justice Kant was deeply involved in his career and family life, raising two young daughters. Nevertheless, he accepted his new role with a sense of duty, viewing it as a moral obligation to repay the institution that had shaped his career. This perspective has guided his journey from a promising lawyer to the 53rd Chief Justice of India, a role he will officially assume on November 24, 2023, after 15 years of service in various judicial capacities.

Colleagues and peers emphasize Justice Kant’s unwavering commitment to fairness. A retired high court judge noted, “For him, the most fascinating transformation was the shift from advocacy to adjudication.” Kant believes that while lawyers measure success through victories, judges gauge it by the fairness of their rulings, which are integral to the moral fabric of society.

Justice Kant has also demonstrated notable administrative skills during his tenure as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. He has been an advocate for a more uniform and efficient judicial system, emphasizing that the performance of high courts should be evaluated based on the quality and timeliness of their district courts. His leadership style reflects a belief that the judiciary must operate cohesively to effectively serve the public.

Beyond his judicial responsibilities, Justice Kant is known for his personal interests, particularly his love for poetry and nature. Friends assert that had he not pursued a career in law, he would have gravitated towards farming and writing. His poetry often draws inspiration from the resilience and dignity of everyday people, capturing the essence of their struggles. A close aide remarked, “He carries the farmer’s patience and the poet’s empathy into his judgments.”

As Justice Kant prepares to step into the role of Chief Justice, his journey exemplifies a blend of intellect and empathy, legal rigor and lyrical grace. He has navigated his career with conviction and care, advocating for justice while remaining grounded in the realities of life. His forthcoming leadership is anticipated to bring a thoughtful and compassionate approach to India’s highest court, reinforcing the vital connection between the judiciary and the people it serves.