The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal to introduce the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026 in Parliament, seeking to increase the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court of India by four—from 33 to 37 (excluding the Chief Justice of India).
Briefing reporters after the meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the decision is aimed at improving the efficiency of the apex court and ensuring faster delivery of justice.
“The increase in the number of judges will enable the Supreme Court to function more efficiently and effectively, helping reduce pendency and ensure speedy justice,” he said.
The proposed amendment seeks to modify the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956, which governs the sanctioned strength of the court. Once approved by Parliament, the number of judges—excluding the Chief Justice—will rise to 37.
Vaishnaw added that the additional financial burden arising from salaries, support staff, and infrastructure will be met through the Consolidated Fund of India.
The move comes against the backdrop of a steady rise in caseloads before the apex court, necessitating measures to enhance judicial capacity. The strength of the Supreme Court has been revised periodically since Independence to keep pace with increasing litigation.
Under Article 124 of the Constitution of India, the court originally comprised the Chief Justice of India and up to seven other judges, while empowering Parliament to increase the number through legislation.
The strength was first raised under the 1956 Act and subsequently expanded in 1960, 1977, 1986, 2008, and most recently in 2019, when it was increased from 30 to 33 judges.
Officials said the latest proposal underscores the government’s focus on strengthening the judiciary and improving access to timely justice as the apex court continues to handle a growing volume of cases.