Lok Sabha Passes Bill to Increase SC Judges
Opposition protested, Lok Sabha cleared the SC (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, by voice vote
Synopsis
The Lok Sabha passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, increasing the number of judges from 34 to 38, including the Chief Justice of India (CJI), to handle its growing pending cases.
AdvertisementWhat Does the Bill Do?
Lok Sabha gave a nod to the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill on August 3, 2026.
The Bill was introduced by the Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, passed in the Lok Sabha through a voice vote without a formal debate and discussion, as opposition members continued sloganeering against the NEET paper leaks and Ram Temple donation theft.
AdvertisementThe Bill amended the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956 and increased the strength of Judges from 34 to 38, including the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
Reason behind the Bill
On May 16, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu issued an ordinance as the Supreme Court was facing over 93,000 pending cases, increasing pressure on the existing bench.
The amendment replaces the temporary ordinance issued by the President under Article 123 of the Indian Constitution.
An ordinance is a temporary law issued by the President when Parliament is not in session, but requires immediate legal action.
AdvertisementThe government used an ordinance to instantly raise the court’s maximum judge capacity from 34 to 38.
Financial Implications
The Bill estimates an annual expenditure of ₹10.57 crore for the salaries and staff of the additional judges, along with a one-time cost of ₹3.47 crore for their official residences and vehicles.
From 8 to 38
The Supreme Court was established in 1950, beginning with 8 judges, including the Chief Justice of India (CJI). Over the years, Parliament increased the sanctioned strength to 38 Judges to match the rising volume of litigation and improve case disposal.
