Supreme Court Judge Justice Vikram Nath has been appointed as the Executive Chairman of NALSA, succeeding Justice Surya Kant. He will oversee legal aid services and the nationwide mission to provide free justice to the underprivileged.
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NEW DELHI: Supreme Court Judge Justice Vikram Nath has been appointed as the next Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), marking a significant development in India’s legal landscape. The official notification for his nomination was issued on November 19, 2025, and his appointment takes effect today, November 24, 2025.
Justice Nath succeeds Justice Surya Kant, who was sworn in as the 53rd Chief Justice of India (CJI) today, highlighting a smooth transition in leadership at NALSA.
The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, made the nomination in accordance with Clause (b) of Section 3(2) of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. This provision empowers the President to nominate a sitting Supreme Court judge to serve as the Executive Chairman of NALSA, ensuring strong judicial leadership for the authority.
National Legal Services Authority
The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, provides free legal aid to weaker sections of society and organizes Lok Adalats for amicable dispute resolution. The Act came into force on 9th November 1995.
- Patron-in-Chief: Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant
- Executive Chairman: Supreme Court Judge, Justice Vikram Nath
- Headquarters: Jaisalmer House, 26 Man Singh Road, New Delhi
Structure
- State Legal Services Authorities (SLSA): Headed by the Chief Justice of the High Court; implement NALSA policies and organize Lok Adalats.
- District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA): Chaired by District Judges; manage legal aid programs at the district level.
- Taluk/Block Committees: Headed by senior civil judges; coordinate local legal aid activities.
Legal Aid Eligibility
Legal aid is available to:
- Scheduled Castes/Tribes, women, children, and disabled persons
- Victims of trafficking, disasters, or caste atrocities
- Undertrial prisoners and low-income individuals
Key Functions
- Free legal representation and advice
- Lok Adalats and Permanent Lok Adalats for dispute settlement
- Legal literacy and awareness campaigns
- Legal aid in jails and for marginalized communities
- Coordination with NGOs and para-legal volunteers
Mission
NALSA aims to ensure access to justice for all, promote conciliation over litigation, and support the marginalized and weaker sections of society.
About Justice Vikram Nath
Justice Vikram Nath graduated from the University of Lucknow and began his legal career in 1987. After practicing as an advocate for 17 years, he was appointed Additional Judge of the Allahabad High Court in 2004 and became a Permanent Judge in 2006.
In 2019, he assumed office as Chief Justice of the Gujarat High Court, and on August 17, 2021, he was elevated to the Supreme Court of India. He is slated to become Chief Justice of India on February 9, 2027, serving for seven months before retirement.
Notable Judgements
- Mahant Akhileshwardasji Ramlakhandasji v. State of Gujarat (2020): Denied permission for Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad during COVID-19, citing public health concerns.
- Ajay Kumar Shukla v. Arvind Rai (2020): Declared the UP Minor Irrigation Department’s seniority list unlawful; emphasized the right to promotion based on merit.
- Barun Chandra Thakur v. Master Bholu (2022): Clarified that mental awareness and emotional competence in children are distinct, impacting legal responsibility.
- Balwant Singh v. Union of India (2023): Referred the mercy plea of convicted assassin Balwant Singh Rajoana to the Central government, rather than deciding directly.
Justice Nath is recognized for his judicial prudence, emphasis on merit and fairness, and balanced approach to public interest cases.
READ NOTIFICATION
Click Here to Read More Reports On CJI Surya Kant