New Delhi | 6 August 2026
Parliament has approved the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, increasing the sanctioned strength of the Supreme Court from 34 judges (including the Chief Justice of India) to 38 judges. In legal terms, this means the number of puisne (ordinary) judges rises from 33 to 37, while the Chief Justice remains one, taking the total strength to 38. The Bill replaces the ordinance issued earlier this year.
The legislation was introduced to tackle the growing backlog of pending cases in the country’s highest court. Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal said that expanding the bench would strengthen judicial efficiency and help deliver faster justice to citizens.
The Lok Sabha had already approved the Bill earlier in the week, and on 6 August, the Rajya Sabha passed it by voice vote, completing Parliament’s approval process. The measure formalizes the increase that had earlier been implemented through a Presidential ordinance.
Why This Matters
- The Supreme Court hears thousands of appeals and constitutional cases every year.
- Increasing the number of judges is expected to reduce the burden on existing benches.
- The move is intended to speed up hearings and reduce delays in delivering justice, although legal experts note that judicial appointments and infrastructure will also play a crucial role in addressing the backlog.
Key Facts
- Bill: Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026
- Previous Strength: 34 judges (1 Chief Justice + 33 judges)
- New Strength: 38 judges (1 Chief Justice + 37 judges)
- Purpose: Faster disposal of cases and improved judicial efficiency.
