Supreme Court Allows Extension Of Tribunal Members’ Term Till September 8, 2026; Centre To Bring New Tribunal Law In Monsoon Session
The Supreme Court of India recently approved a six-month extension for retiring chairpersons and members of various tribunals until September 8, 2026. This interim measure ensures continuity in tribunal operations amid upcoming retirements of about 21 members.
A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi heard petitions from bar associations, including CAT Bar Association, raising concerns over potential tribunal dysfunction. Attorney General R Venkataramani assured the court that the Centre is preparing a new tribunal law compliant with prior judgments, like the Madras Bar Association case, for introduction in the Budget or Monsoon Session of Parliament.
The extension applies to those appointed under the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021, until the new law or maximum age limits under the Act. The court will review progress fortnightly to monitor legislative updates.
This follows the Supreme Court’s November 2025 ruling striking down parts of the 2021 Act on appointments and tenures as unconstitutional. The decision balances judicial oversight with administrative needs, preventing vacancies while pushing for reforms.
