**Justice Surya Kant Appointed as New Executive Chairman of NALSA**
Justice Surya Kant, a Judge of the Supreme Court of India, has been appointed as the new Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). This significant appointment will take effect on May 14, 2025. In his new role, Justice Surya Kant will spearhead NALSA’s efforts to provide free and accessible legal aid to citizens throughout India, with a particular focus on marginalized and economically disadvantaged groups.
Justice Surya Kant’s leadership is anticipated to strengthen the constitutional mandate outlined in Article 39-A, which ensures that justice is not denied to any citizen due to financial or social barriers. His nomination was made under Clause (b) of sub-section (2) of Section 3 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and was officially confirmed by the Ministry of Law and Justice in a notification published in the Official Gazette on May 9, 2025.
Traditionally, the position of Executive Chairman is held by the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, and Justice Surya Kant succeeds Justice BR Gavai in this esteemed role. Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC) and has been instrumental in advancing access to justice. NALSA has acknowledged his significant contributions to legal aid and institutional reforms within the justice delivery system.
In conclusion, Justice Surya Kant’s appointment as Executive Chairman of NALSA marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing mission to enhance legal accessibility for all citizens, reinforcing the commitment to justice as a fundamental right.
**FAQ**
*What is the role of the Executive Chairman of NALSA?*
The Executive Chairman of NALSA leads initiatives to provide free legal aid and ensure that justice is accessible to all citizens, particularly those from marginalized and economically weaker sections.
