Who is Justice J.K. Maheshwari, the Newly Nominated Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Justice J.K. Maheshwari appointed as Chairman of SCLSC.
- Focus on access to justice for marginalized groups.
- Appointment effective from November 24, 2025.
- Predecessor was Justice Vikram Nath.
- Upholding Article 39A of the Constitution.
New Delhi, Nov 24 (NationPress) Justice J.K. Maheshwari has received a nomination to serve as the new Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC), as per a notification released by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
This nomination was announced on Sunday by former Chief Justice of India, Justice Bhushan R. Gavai, under the authority granted by Section 3A of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
According to the notification published in the Official Gazette by the NALSA Member Secretary, it states, "In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3A of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 (39 of 1987), the Chief Justice of India is pleased to nominate Justice Jitendra Kumar Maheshwari, Supreme Court Judge, as Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee effective November 24, 2025."
Justice Maheshwari takes over from Justice Vikram Nath, who has been appointed as the NALSA Executive Chairman.
The Supreme Court Legal Services Committee plays an essential role in facilitating access to justice for economically disadvantaged and socially marginalized groups aiming to approach the highest court in the nation.
By providing complimentary legal assistance, representation, and support, the SCLSC endeavors to uphold the Constitutional mandate under Article 39A, which requires the State to promote justice based on equal opportunity and to ensure that no individual is barred from seeking access to the apex court due to financial constraints or social disadvantages.
NALSA, through the SCLSC and various initiatives, continues to enhance legal aid services and mitigate barriers to ensure that individuals facing financial or social challenges can access the judicial system.
Article 39A states that "the State shall secure that the operation of the legal system promotes justice, on a basis of equal opportunity, and shall, in particular, provide free legal aid, through suitable legislation or schemes or in any other way, to ensure that opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities."