[Exclusive] Inside Story on the push for more Supreme Court judges: Collegium consultations to begin tomorrow

The Central government's recent decision to raise the sanctioned strength of the Supreme Court from 34 to 38 came pursuant to a request by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant

CJI Kant  had written to the Union government in February this year seeking an increase in the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court, sources told Bar & Bench.

With President Droupadi Murmu promulgating the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Ordinance, 2026 on Friday, the Supreme Court collegium is now set to begin consultations from May 18 for appointments to the newly created posts.

Sources said the CJI sought increase in the strength of the top court to help tackle pendency and enable the Court to constitute dedicated Constitution Benches more regularly.

The Union Cabinet approved the proposal to increase the number of judges from 34 to 38 on May 5. Eleven days later, the President promulgated the Ordinance increasing the sanctioned strength of the Court.

Sources indicated that the speed with which the proposal moved pleasantly surprised the Chief Justice, particularly since the process had originated from the judiciary itself.

Preparations to accommodate the incoming judges are already underway within the Supreme Court premises, sources said. Temporary arrangements have been made to ensure chambers are available for new appointees immediately upon elevation.

Construction of additional chambers and at least one new courtroom has also commenced within the existing court complex.

The Court does not anticipate courtroom availability becoming an immediate concern and Constitution Benches are expected to continue functioning normally during the transition period.