Justice Surya Kant Appointed as NALSA Executive Chairman

Justice Surya Kant, a sitting judge of the Supreme Court of India, has been appointed as the new Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) by the President of India. His appointment, effective from May 14, 2025, aligns with the tradition of nominating the second senior-most judge of the apex court to this role. Justice Kant will now spearhead the national mission to provide free legal aid and promote access to justice for the underprivileged.

Why in News?

Justice Surya Kant has been nominated as the Executive Chairman of NALSA, a key institution established to ensure legal services for weaker sections of society. His appointment is significant in the context of strengthening India’s legal aid framework and fulfilling the constitutional mandate under Article 39-A.

Key Highlights

• Appointment Date: Effective from May 14, 2025
• Appointed By: President of India
• Predecessor: Justice BR Gavai
• Legal Provision: Under Clause (b) of sub-section (2) of Section 3 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987
• Current Role: Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC)

About Justice Surya Kant

• Currently a Supreme Court judge, second in seniority after the Chief Justice.
• Known for his contributions to legal aid, judicial reforms, and access to justice.
• Previously served as Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court and Judge in Punjab and Haryana High Court.

About NALSA (National Legal Services Authority)

• Established: 1995 under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Aims to provide free legal services to the poor and marginalised.
• Focuses on Lok Adalats, legal awareness, and legal aid camps.
• Mandated by Article 39-A of the Indian Constitution to ensure equal justice.

Significance of the Appointment

• Strengthens India’s access-to-justice framework.
• Reinforces the constitutional duty to promote social justice.
• Justice Kant’s leadership is expected to boost institutional reforms and legal outreach programmes.