Lok Sabha Passes Bill Raising Supreme Court Judge Strength to 38

The Lok Sabha passed the Supreme Court Amendment Bill on August 3, 2026, during the eleventh day of the Parliament’s Monsoon Session. The legislation aims to increase the sanctioned strength of the apex court from 34 to 38 judges, including the Chief Justice of India. The bill was passed via a voice vote shortly after its introduction, replacing an earlier ordinance that had initially mandated the increase. This expansion is designed to facilitate the faster disposal of cases and reduce the massive backlog currently facing the country's highest judicial body.

The passage of the bill occurred amidst significant disruption, as opposition members staged protests in the well of the House. Lawmakers raised slogans regarding alleged paper leaks in national examinations and questioned the management of temple donations. Despite these interruptions, the government moved ahead with the legislative agenda, which also saw the Rajya Sabha passing the MSME Bill. The Speaker eventually adjourned the Lok Sabha for the day following the bill’s passage, citing persistent shouting and lack of order during the proceedings.

Increasing the number of judges is a direct response to the growing volume of litigation reaching the Supreme Court. For the average Indian citizen, more judges should theoretically lead to shorter wait times for final appeals and constitutional matters. By expanding the court to 38 members, the judiciary can form more benches to hear cases simultaneously. The bill must now receive final approval in the Rajya Sabha before being sent to the President for assent. The focus will now shift to how quickly these four new vacancies are filled by the Supreme Court Collegium.