The Historic Swearing-In Ceremony
The oath was administered by President Droupadi Murmu during a brief but solemn ceremony. Justice Surya Kant took the oath in Hindi, invoking the name of God, in line with constitutional provisions. The event drew wide participation from political leaders, judges, diplomats and global judicial representatives.
In a touching moment that resonated widely on social media, Justice Surya Kant bowed to touch the feet of his elder family members soon after the ceremony, symbolising humility and tradition.
Dignitaries present included Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and former CJI BR Gavai. Several sitting and retired judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts also attended.
Global Judicial Delegations Attend Ceremony
The swearing-in saw strong international participation, with chief justices and senior judges from Bhutan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Nepal, and Sri Lanka in attendance. Their presence highlighted India’s growing judicial cooperation and global legal engagement.
Notable attendees included Bhutan’s Chief Justice Lyonpo Norbu Tshering, Kenya’s Chief Justice Martha Koome, Malaysia’s Justice Tan Sri Datuk Nallini Pathmanathan, Mauritius’ Chief Justice Bibi Rehana Mungly-Gulbul, Nepal’s Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut, and Sri Lanka’s Chief Justice P. Padman Suresena.
PM Modi Welcomes New CJI
Soon after the ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm wishes to Justice Surya Kant on X. “Attended the oath-taking ceremony of Justice Surya Kant as the Chief Justice of India. Best wishes to him for his tenure ahead,” he posted.
The Prime Minister has earlier lauded Justice Kant’s legal acumen and administrative capabilities, emphasising his decades-long contribution to the judiciary.
Justice Surya Kant: A Distinguished Journey
Born on February 10, 1962, in Hisar, Haryana, Justice Surya Kant’s rise from a small-town lawyer to India’s top judicial post reflects deep dedication and merit. Before joining the Supreme Court, he served as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. He also delivered several landmark judgments during his tenure at the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
Known for his clarity in legal interpretation, commitment to judicial reforms and emphasis on accessible justice, Justice Surya Kant is expected to steer the judiciary during a crucial period marked by technology-driven legal challenges.
Ex-CJI Gavai’s Gesture Sets New Benchmark
The act of handing over the official CJI vehicle directly at Rashtrapati Bhavan is being widely praised as a gesture of respect and seamless transition. According to a source quoted by PTI, Justice Gavai ensured the vehicle remained available for the new CJI to travel to the Supreme Court immediately after taking office.
Legal experts say the gesture, though symbolic, strengthens the culture of institutional continuity within the judiciary.
