Parliament has passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, increasing the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court from 33 to 37 judges, excluding the Chief Justice of India (CJI). The legislation aims to strengthen the judiciary by improving its capacity to hear cases and reducing the growing backlog pending before the apex court.
The Bill received approval after being passed by both Houses of Parliament, replacing an earlier ordinance issued by the Centre. With the increase in judicial strength, the total sanctioned strength of the Supreme Court will now be 38 judges, including the Chief Justice of India.
Objective Behind the Amendment
The government stated that the increase in the number of judges is intended to improve judicial efficiency and ensure faster disposal of cases.
According to official estimates, the Supreme Court continues to handle a significant number of pending civil, criminal, constitutional, and public interest matters. Increasing the number of judges is expected to:
- Reduce case pendency.
- Improve access to justice.
- Speed up hearings.
- Strengthen judicial administration.
- Enhance overall efficiency of the apex court.
Law Ministry officials said the move is part of broader judicial reforms aimed at making India’s justice delivery system more effective.
Debate in Parliament
During the discussion, the government argued that expanding the strength of the Supreme Court has become necessary due to the steady rise in litigation and the increasing complexity of constitutional matters.
Some Opposition members supported the objective of reducing pendency but also stressed that merely increasing the number of judges would not completely solve delays unless vacancies in High Courts and lower courts are filled and judicial infrastructure is strengthened.
Judicial Reforms Continue
Legal experts believe the amendment is a positive step but emphasise that additional reforms are also needed, including:
- Faster appointment of judges.
- Better digital court infrastructure.
- Modern case management systems.
- Increased support staff.
- Strengthening subordinate courts.
They noted that improving efficiency across all levels of the judiciary remains essential for delivering timely justice.
Looking Ahead
Following Parliament’s approval, the government is expected to initiate the appointment process for the additional judges through the constitutional collegium system.
Officials said the expansion will help the Supreme Court manage its growing workload more effectively while improving the speed of judicial proceedings.
Source: Parliament of India, Ministry of Law & Justice, and official parliamentary proceedings.
Original Report: Parliament passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, increasing the sanctioned strength of Supreme Court judges from 33 to 37 (excluding the Chief Justice) to improve judicial efficiency and reduce case pendency.
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