Justice Surya Kant is one of India’s most respected judicial figures, known for his steady rise from a small-town advocate to a key voice in the Supreme Court of India. His career is marked by landmark judgments, administrative reforms, and a strong commitment to justice that has earned him national recognition. Beyond his legal work, his personal story reflects hard work, discipline, and deep-rooted family values.
Justice Surya Kant Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Surya Kant |
| Date of Birth | February 10, 1962 |
| Birthplace | Hisar district, Haryana, India |
| Age | 63 years (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hindu |
| Father | Shri Madan Gopal Sharma (Sanskrit teacher) |
| Mother | Not publicly disclosed |
| Wife | Savita Vashisht |
| Profession | Judge, Supreme Court of India |
| Education | LLB & Master’s in Law (First Class First, Kurukshetra University) |
| Tenure as CJI | Will demit office on February 9, 2027 |
Early Life and Family Background
Justice Surya Kant was born on February 10, 1962, in the Hisar district of Haryana into a modest and hardworking family. His upbringing was deeply shaped by the values of education and simplicity. His father, Shri Madan Gopal Sharma—also known as Madan Gopal Shastri—worked as a Sanskrit teacher. He was known in the community for his discipline and dedication to classical studies. He passed away in October 2018 at the age of 90.
Justice Surya Kant often acknowledged that watching his father work with sincerity and humility taught him the importance of integrity early in life. His mother’s name has not been publicly disclosed, but his family environment has consistently been described as traditional, value-oriented, and rooted in education.
Education
Growing up in a middle-class home in rural Haryana, Justice Kant pursued education with unusual focus. He later studied law and went on to complete his Master’s degree in 2011 from Kurukshetra University, where he stood First Class First—a rare achievement for someone already deeply involved in legal practice.
This academic milestone highlighted his commitment to lifelong learning and helped shape his analytical approach to the law.
Professional Journey
Justice Surya Kant’s journey from a young advocate to a Supreme Court judge is one of perseverance and sharp legal insight.
From Small-Town Lawyer to Senior Advocate
He started his legal practice in the courts of Haryana and soon developed a reputation for clarity of argument and deep understanding of constitutional issues. His growing credibility earned him a position as Advocate General of Haryana before he was appointed a judge in the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
Rise to Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court
Despite a moment of controversy surrounding his elevation, he was appointed Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court in 2018. His judgments there strengthened public trust in the judiciary, especially on matters involving transparency and public service.
Journey in the Supreme Court
Justice Kant later became a Supreme Court Judge, where he participated in decisions involving:
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Abrogation of Article 370
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Sedition law and its temporary suspension
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Citizenship rights and electoral transparency
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Security lapses in high-profile state visits
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Women’s representation in bar associations
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One Rank-One Pension (OROP) scheme
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Pegasus spyware investigation
His judicial philosophy emphasizes fairness, accountability, and the idea that even the most powerful institutions must answer to the Constitution.
Latest News and Current Role
In November 2025, Justice Surya Kant discussed the enormous challenge of reducing the Supreme Court’s nearly 90,000 pending cases. He emphasized the need for efficiency and judicial reforms during his tenure as Chief Justice.
He is expected to serve until February 9, 2027, when he will demit office upon turning 65.
Personal Life: Wife and Family
Justice Surya Kant is married to Savita Vashisht, who has stood by him throughout his legal journey. The couple is known to maintain a private life, consistently keeping media attention away from their family matters.
His religious background is Hindu, and his values reflect the discipline and cultural grounding that characterized his upbringing.
Religion
Justice Surya Kant follows Hinduism. His ethical approach to law—based on fairness, balance, and responsibility—is often attributed to his upbringing in a home where discipline and respect were considered central virtues.
Father and Parents
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Father: Shri Madan Gopal Sharma, a widely respected Sanskrit teacher, who passed away in October 2018.
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Mother: Not publicly disclosed.
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Family Values: Traditional, education-rooted, and deeply connected to cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Justice Surya Kant’s life story captures the journey of a man who rose from a humble background to one of the most influential positions in India’s judiciary. His contributions to constitutional law, his balanced approach to complex cases, and his dedication to reducing judicial pendency reflect his long-standing commitment to public service. As he continues his tenure in the Supreme Court, his work remains central to shaping India’s legal landscape for future generations.
FAQs
1. What is Justice Surya Kant’s full name?
His full name is Surya Kant.
2. When and where was Justice Surya Kant born?
He was born on February 10, 1962, in Hisar district, Haryana.
3. Who is Justice Surya Kant’s wife?
His wife is Savita Vashisht.
4. What is his religion?
Justice Surya Kant follows Hinduism.
5. What is known about his parents?
His father, Shri Madan Gopal Sharma, was a Sanskrit teacher who passed away in 2018. Information about his mother has not been publicly disclosed.
