Justice Surya Kant Appointed as Executive Chairman of NALSA

In a significant legal development, President of India has nominated Justice Surya Kant, currently serving as a judge of the Supreme Court of India, as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). This prestigious appointment is effective from May 14, 2025, as per the notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice.

The President’s decision, which was announced under the powers conferred by Section 3(2)(b) of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, marks an important milestone in the governance of legal services in the country. Justice Surya Kant's appointment is in line with the long-standing convention of appointing the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court to the role of NALSA’s Executive Chairman.

Justice BR Gavai, the current Executive Chairman of NALSA, is set to assume the office of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) on May 14, 2025, following the retirement of CJI Sanjiv Khanna on May 13, 2025. Justice Gavai's elevation to the highest judicial post in the country opens the door for Justice Surya Kant to take over the helm at NALSA.

As a senior member of the judiciary, Justice Surya Kant has also served as the Chairperson of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee. His extensive experience in legal services makes him a fitting choice for leading NALSA, which plays a critical role in ensuring legal aid and services to the marginalized sections of society.

NALSA, under the guidance of its new Executive Chairman, is expected to continue its mission to enhance access to justice and improve legal aid services across India. Justice Surya Kant’s appointment brings a fresh wave of hope for advancing the cause of social justice through legal mechanisms.