Chief Justice Surya Kant Outlines Roadmap for Judicial Reform

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant outlined a comprehensive roadmap for judicial reform during an interview with DD News on August 13, 2026. He emphasized that reform must begin at the grassroots level by strengthening district court infrastructure to ensure impartial justice for ordinary citizens. To address judicial backlogs since taking office in November 2025, Justice Kant has implemented improved docket management, the grouping of related matters, and the creation of Constitution benches for consequential cases.

Technology serves as a primary tool in these reforms. The Supreme Court of India has already introduced virtual hearings and the translation of judgments into 16 regional languages to increase accessibility. Justice Kant argued that streamlining case management through technology allows the judiciary to dedicate more time to substantive decision-making.

Addressing the judiciary's role in a political landscape, Justice Kant asserted that the courts remain neutral toward both the government and the opposition, guided solely by the Constitution. He defended judicial activism, including Public Interest Litigation and suo motu actions, as essential constitutional responsibilities used to protect socio-economically disadvantaged populations. He also highlighted progress in inclusivity, noting the recent appointment of a woman judge to the Supreme Court and the historic concurrent service of four women as Chief Justices of High Courts.