The Union Cabinet approved increasing the Supreme Court judge strength from 33 to 37 judges excluding the Chief Justice of India, raising total sanctioned strength to 38. The decision aims to reduce massive pendency exceeding 90,000 cases in 2026. Best Book for Current Affairs & General Knowledge Preparation
The proposal requires amendment to the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956. Parliament determines Supreme Court judge strength under Article 124 of the Constitution.
The Supreme Court originally started in 1950 with one Chief Justice and seven puisne judges. Growing litigation and constitutional disputes led to multiple expansions in judicial strength over decades.
In 2019, Parliament increased sanctioned strength from 30 to 33 judges excluding the Chief Justice. Total strength consequently rose from 31 to 34 judges.
The Supreme Court functions as the apex constitutional court, highest appellate court, and federal dispute settlement authority. It also safeguards Fundamental Rights through writ jurisdiction under Article 32.
Expected Current Affairs Questions for UPSC CDS NDA and AFCAT 2 2026 Written Exam
Q1. Under which Article does Parliament determine Supreme Court judge strength?
A. Article 143
B. Article 124
C. Article 131
D. Article 368
Answer: B. Article 124
Explanation: Article 124 empowers Parliament to regulate Supreme Court judge strength through legislation.
Q2. The Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act was enacted in:
A. 1950
B. 1952
C. 1956
D. 1962
Answer: C. 1956
Explanation: The Act governs sanctioned strength of Supreme Court judges.
Q3. Which Constitutional Article allows direct approach to the Supreme Court for Fundamental Rights enforcement?
A. Article 226
B. Article 21
C. Article 19
D. Article 32
Answer: D. Article 32
Explanation: Article 32 provides citizens the right to directly approach the Supreme Court for enforcement of Fundamental Rights.
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Also Read: Important NCERT Notes for UPSC CDS NDA CAPF AC and AFCAT Written Exam
This Current Affairs topic is important for the upcoming AFCAT 2 2026 and UPSC CDS & NDA 2 2026 Written Exam, as Current Affairs Questions are expected to be asked from this CA Topic. We have also provided three probable Current Affairs Questions for AFCAT CDS and NDA exam, which aspirants can practice to ensure high marks in GK/GS section of the Exam.
