New Delhi, May 13 (Reporter) The President of India has appointed Justice Surya Kant, senior judge of the Supreme Court, as the new Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). The appointment will take effect from May 14, following the elevation of Justice B R Gavai as the new CJI, who held the position until now. Justice Surya Kant’s elevation to this crucial post comes in accordance with the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, specifically under Clause (b) of sub-section (2) of Section 3. The Ministry of Law and Justice formally notified the appointment in the Official Gazette dated May nine. By tradition, the role of Executive Chairman is assigned to the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court. Justice Surya Kant’s experience and commitment to legal service reform are expected to bring renewed momentum to NALSA’s mission of ensuring free and effective legal aid, particularly for the marginalised and economically weaker sections of society. Currently serving as the Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC), Justice Surya Kant has played a pivotal role in promoting access to justice. Under his stewardship, NALSA is expected to strengthen the implementation of Article 39-A of the Constitution, which mandates the state to provide equal justice and free legal aid, ensuring that justice is not denied to any citizen because of poverty or other social disadvantages. In a press release, NALSA acknowledged Justice Kant’s deep involvement in institutional reforms and his long-standing dedication to advancing legal awareness and access. His leadership is seen as a significant step forward in enhancing the reach and effectiveness of legal aid services across India...////...