The Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a proposal to increase the number of judges in the Supreme Court of India from 33 to 37 excluding the Chief Justice of India.
The decision clears the way for the introduction of the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 in Parliament. The move is aimed at improving the efficiency of the apex court and ensuring faster delivery of justice amid a rising number of pending cases.
The total number of judges will be increased by four, from 33 to 37 (excluding the Chief Justice of India).
The expansion is expected to help reduce case backlog and speed up hearings.
The cost of additional judges, staff and infrastructure will be covered through the Consolidated Fund of India.
As per Article 124 of the Constitution of India Parliament has the authority to decide the strength of the Supreme Court. Over the years, the number of judges has been increased multiple times:
1956: 10 judges
1960: 13 judges
1977: 17 judges
1986: 25 judges
2008: 30 judges
2019: 33 judges
This is the first increase in judge strength since 2019 and is seen as a significant step toward strengthening the judicial system.
The decision is expected to enhance the functioning of the Supreme Court by allowing more benches, quicker hearings, and improved access to justice for citizens.
