October 27, 2025 – Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai’s recommendation of Justice Surya Kant as his successor has triggered heated debate, with critics alleging favoritism and questioning the transparency of the selection process. As the senior-most judge after Gavai, Justice Kant is poised to become the 53rd CJI, pending approval from the Law Ministry, succeeding Gavai when his term ends on November 23, 2025. If appointed, Kant will serve until February 9, 2027—a 14-month tenure—and become the first CJI from Haryana. However, the decision has ignited controversy, with accusations of regional bias and political influence clouding the process. Here’s a deep dive into the controversy, Justice Surya Kant’s background, and why his potential appointment is raising eyebrows.
Who is Justice Surya Kant? From Humble Beginnings to Judicial Powerhouse
Born on February 10, 1962, in a small village in Haryana’s Hisar, Justice Surya Kant’s rise from modest roots to a potential CJI is both inspiring and contentious. The son of a schoolteacher, Kant attended a village school before earning his law degree from Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) in 1984. Starting his legal career in Hisar’s district courts, he later moved to Chandigarh to practice at the Punjab and Haryana High Court. At just 38, Kant became Haryana’s youngest advocate general, a move critics now claim was influenced by political connections in the state.
Kant’s judicial career progressed rapidly. He was appointed a judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2004, became Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court in 2018, and was elevated to the Supreme Court in 2019. Despite his academic achievements, including a master’s degree from Kurukshetra University in 2011, detractors argue his meteoric rise suggests preferential treatment. “His appointments seem less about merit and more about strategic alliances,” an anonymous senior advocate told India Legal Times, fueling speculation of behind-the-scenes maneuvering.SEO Keywords: Justice Surya Kant, Chief Justice of India, CJI successor, BR Gavai, Supreme Court India, Haryana judge, Article 370 verdict, judicial favoritism
Controversy Surrounding Justice Surya Kant’s CJI Nomination
The recommendation of Justice Kant as CJI has sparked allegations of favoritism, with critics questioning the convention of automatically nominating the senior-most judge. “Why not open the CJI selection process to broader scrutiny?” asked a retired Supreme Court judge, echoing sentiments in legal circles. Many argue that Kant’s Haryana roots and rapid career ascent point to regional and political biases, particularly given Haryana’s electoral significance.
Kant’s judicial record adds fuel to the fire. His role in the 2023 Supreme Court bench that upheld the abrogation of Article 370 has been both lauded and criticized. Supporters view the verdict as a milestone in national integration, praising Kant’s balanced and calm demeanor. However, critics argue the ruling aligned too closely with the central government’s agenda, raising concerns about judicial independence. “His judgments often seem to favor state interests,” a legal analyst noted, citing other cases where Kant’s decisions allegedly leaned toward government policies.
A Polarizing Figure in India’s Judiciary
As Justice Kant stands on the verge of becoming CJI, the legal community remains deeply divided. Supporters highlight his academic rigor and grounded demeanor, pointing to his master’s degree earned while serving as a judge. Critics, however, see his career as evidence of systemic favoritism, questioning whether political ties in Haryana and beyond have propelled his ascent.With the Law Ministry’s decision pending, the controversy over Justice Surya Kant’s potential appointment threatens to undermine public trust in India’s judiciary. Will his tenure, if confirmed, bridge divides or deepen skepticism about the judiciary’s impartiality? As debates rage, all eyes are on the Law Ministry’s next move.
What’s Next for Justice Surya Kant and India’s Judiciary?
If appointed, Justice Kant’s 14-month tenure as CJI could shape landmark cases and influence the judiciary’s direction. However, the allegations of favoritism and political influence may cast a long shadow. Legal experts urge greater transparency in the CJI selection process to restore public confidence. For now, the nation awaits the Law Ministry’s decision, with Justice Kant’s legacy hanging in the balance.Stay Updated: Follow India Legal Times for the latest on Justice Surya Kant’s CJI nomination, Supreme Court developments, and judicial controversies in India.