President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Supreme Court Judge Surya Kant as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
A notification formalizing his nomination was issued by the Ministry of Law & Justice on May 9, 2025.
Mandate & Mission
“As executive chairman, Justice Surya Kant will lead NALSA’s mission to provide accessible and free legal aid to all citizens, particularly those from marginalized and economically weaker sections of society pan-India,” NALSA stated in its press release. Under his leadership, the authority is expected to intensify outreach efforts and strengthen legal aid clinics across the country, ensuring that justice is not denied to anyone for want of representation.
Succession & Convention
Justice Kant succeeds Justice B. R. Gavai, also a sitting Supreme Court judge, who previously held the post. “Justice B R Gavai, judge, Supreme Court of India, was the previous executive chairman of NALSA. As per convention, the post is occupied by the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court of India,” the release noted. Following established practice, Justice Kant, being the second senior-most judge after the Chief Justice, was the natural choice for this role.
Incoming Chief Justice’s Transition
Justice Gavai, whose term as NALSA chairman is concluding, is slated to assume office as the 52nd Chief Justice of India on May 14, 2025. His elevation to the highest judicial office necessitated the nomination of a new executive chairman for NALSA, paving the way for Justice Kant’s appointment.
Justice Surya Kant’s Track Record
Before this nomination, Justice Kant chaired the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, where he championed various initiatives aimed at simplifying legal procedures and expanding pro bono services. Under his stewardship, the Committee:
- Expanded Legal Aid Clinics in remote districts
- Streamlined the appointment of panel lawyers for undertrial prisoners
- Launched awareness campaigns on fundamental rights and court processes
Colleagues and legal practitioners commend his proactive approach toward institutional reform and his focus on strengthening the grassroots delivery of legal aid.
Challenges & Opportunities Ahead
As Executive Chairman of NALSA, Justice Kant inherits a broad mandate:
Nationwide Coverage: Ensuring every district has functional legal aid cells with qualified lawyers.
Quality of Representation: Maintaining high standards among panel advocates through regular training and review.
Public Awareness: Enhancing outreach to inform vulnerable communities about their legal entitlements.
Digital Access: Integrating technology, such as online Lok Adalats and e-filing support, to reach remote users.
Observers note that his tenure will be critical in bridging the gap between the judiciary and those who lack the means to access it. With rising awareness of rights and an expanding roster of legal aid beneficiaries, NALSA’s role has never been more pivotal.
Looking Forward
Justice Surya Kant’s nomination marks a continuity of seasoned judicial leadership at NALSA. His proven commitment to legal aid and reform positions him well to steer the authority toward greater efficiency and inclusivity. As he takes charge, stakeholders in the legal fraternity will be watching closely to see how he builds on past successes and addresses persistent challenges in delivering justice to India’s marginalized communities.
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