Justice Surya Kant: Next CJI, strong proponent of human enterprise in dispensing justice

The government on Thursday initiated the process to appoint the next chief justice of India as incumbent B R Gavai demits office on November 23,

In an era where almost all aspects of governance and decision-making involves the usage of technology, in varying degrees, Justice Surya Kant, poised to assume the
office of Chief Justice of India (CJI) next month, has been a strong proponent of profound human enterprise in the domain of dispensing justice.

In his recent address, Justice Surya Kant, said technology is a powerful ally in the legal profession, but providing justice would always be a profoundly human enterprise. "The essence of our calling lies not in data or algorithms, but in conscience and compassion...' he said in his keynote address at the National Law Conference organised by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka.

Justice Surya Kant's rise in the higher judiciary is a story worth mentioning, one that is very different form other members of the legal fraternity with early access and exposure to the legal world. Justice Surya Kant, born in the quaint town of Hisar, Haryana, emerged from humble beginnings to carve a illustrious career in the legal realm.

Justice Surya Kant brings to the country’s top judicial office a wealth of experience spanning two decades on the Bench, marked by landmark verdicts on abrogation of Article 370, free speech, democracy, corruption, environment and gender equality. He was part of the historic bench that kept the colonial-era sedition law in abeyance, directing that no new FIRs be registered under it until a government review.

With his academic prowess in hand, Justice Kant embarked on his professional journey by commencing his legal practice at the District Court in Hisar the in 1984. In 1985 that Justice Kant made a pivotal decision to shift his practice to Chandigarh, where he delved into matters concerning the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Specializing in Constitutional, Service, and Civil matters, his expertise garnered attention, leading him to represent various esteemed entities including universities, boards, corporations, and banks.

Justice Kant held his office as Advocate General, Haryana till his elevation as a Permanent Judge to the Punjab and Haryana High Court. His journey reached new heights when he assumed the role of Chief Justice of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh.

His judicial temperament and commitment to upholding the principles of justice earned him widespread respect within the legal fraternity.8 Recognized for his judicial integrity and astuteness, Supreme Court Collegium recommended Justice Kant’s name for being appointed as Judges of the Supreme Court of India.9 Justice Kant was elevated to the highest echelons of the Indian judiciary as a Judge of the Supreme Court.

Beyond his judicial duties, Justice Kant has been actively involved in various legal forums and organizations. Notably, he served as a Member of the Governing Body of the National Legal Services Authority for two consecutive terms.

Additionally, his membership in various committees of the Indian Law Institute underscores his dedication to legal scholarship and reform.12 Throughout his career, Justice Kant has been a prominent figure in national and international legal circles, organizing and participating in prestigious conferences that contribute to the discourse on legal matters.