Haryana's Petwar Village Awaits 'Second Diwali' as Justice Surya Kant Set to Become CJI

A small village in Haryana's Narnaund area is preparing to celebrate what locals are calling their "second Diwali" of the year.After incumbent Justice BR Gavai retired on November 23, Petwar village native Justice Surya Kant is set to take over as India's next Chief Justice.

From humble beginnings to the highest position in the judiciary

Justice Surya Kant's journey from this rural village to the country's top judicial position represents a classic story of dedication overcoming modest circumstances. His elder brother Rishi Kant, a retired government teacher, shared that the future CJI recently visited the village just before Diwali to meet family and greet fellow villagers. "Filled with nostalgia, he visited Government Primary School and the ancestral haveli where he was born," Rishi Kant recalled. The visit reflected Justice Kant's deep connection to his roots despite his elevated professional position.

His educational journey began at the village's Government School, where his father Madan Gopal, a Sanskrit teacher, taught him. After matriculation, he pursued graduation at Government PG College in Hisar before completing his LLB from Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, in 1984.

Professional Journey

Justice Kant started his legal career practicing in district courts before eventually moving to the Punjab and Haryana High Court. This progression through various levels of the judiciary gave him comprehensive understanding of India's legal system from grassroots courts to appellate forums. 

His ascension to the Supreme Court and now to the position of Chief Justice demonstrates merit-based advancement through the judicial hierarchy. The appointment process initiated by the Centre recognizes his judicial acumen and years of distinguished service. 

Community Connection and Giving Back

What particularly endears Justice Kant to Petwar residents is his continued engagement with the community despite his prestigious career. Villager Satbir Singh emphasized, "Justice Surya Kant is a reflection of simplicity and hard work. He has great regard for hardworking children and visits the village every year to honour meritorious students of classes 10 and 12 with cash prizes."

This annual tradition of recognizing academic excellence has made him an inspirational figure for village youth. His presence during these events sends a powerful message that rural backgrounds need not limit one's aspirations or achievements.

Family's Educational Legacy 

Rishi Kant explained that their family runs the Pandit Ramprasad Atmaram Charitable Trust, which continues the tradition of honoring meritorious students. This philanthropic work extends the family's commitment to education across generations. Among five siblings, their eldest sister Kamala Devi is married in Jind; Dr. Shiv Kant operates a hospital in Bhiwani; Dev Kant retired as a group instructor from an ITI; while Justice Surya Kant is the youngest. The family's emphasis on education clearly influenced all siblings' professional trajectories.

MLA Jassi Petwar Praises Justic Surya Kant's Perseverance 

"It is a matter of pride that born in a modest family, Justice Surya Kant has reached the highest judicial office in the country through dedication and perseverance," said Jassi Petwar, the MLA for Narnaund and a village native himself.

Justice Kant's promotion to the highest national level is seen by Petwar village as confirmation that rural India can produce leaders. Justice Kant's story shows how individual willpower, family support, and high-quality education can transcend financial and geographic constraints.