Union frames rules to standardise tribunal head appointments

The Union Law Ministry has issued rules for the newly-created National Tribunals Commission aimed at standardising the appointment of tribunal heads and members across multiple judicial forums. Published on Thursday after being issued on September 30, the rules will enable the commission to appoint chairpersons and members to 16 tribunals and appellate bodies.

The National Tribunals Commission and Qualification, Selection and Conditions of Service of Chairperson and Members of Tribunals Rules, 2026, seek to standardise recruitment and eligibility for various tribunal posts while establishing a formal inquiry mechanism for misconduct complaints and prescribing service conditions and remuneration. According to the rules, a commission chairperson will receive ₹2.5 lakh per month, while commission members and tribunal chairpersons and members will receive ₹2.25 lakh per month, with provisions for specified exceptions.

The rules stipulate that the process to fill tribunal vacancies must be initiated at least six months before they arise. Search-cum-selection committees will assess candidates through expert evaluation, personal interaction, and where applicable, writing exercises. The National Tribunals Commission was established following the passage of the Tribunals Reforms Bill by Parliament in August, which came after a Supreme Court direction. The commission aims to improve efficiency and ensure independence, transparency and uniformity in tribunal appointments.