With the elevation of Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul M. Pancholi, the Supreme Court has regained its sanctioned strength of 34 judges. While addressing chronic understaffing, Justice Pancholi’s appointment—superseding 56 senior High Court judges—raises debates on seniority, transparency, and collegium practice. For lawyers, this impacts bench constitution, case listing, and succession dynamics.

CJI tells lawyer challenging collegium: “Don’t make a political speech in court” during plea listing for NJAC revival.