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On November 11, 2024, Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI) in a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with President Droupadi Murmu administering the oath of office. Distinguished guests, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, were present to witness the ceremony. Justice Khanna’s appointment as Chief Justice marks a significant milestone in his distinguished legal career.

Born on May 14, 1960, Justice Sanjiv Khanna will serve as Chief Justice of India for a tenure of just over six months until his retirement on May 13, 2025. Despite the brevity of his term, his impact on the judiciary is anticipated to be profound. Notably, Justice Khanna chose not to move into the official CJI residence at 5 Krishna Menon Marg, given the short duration of his term, a decision that reflects his pragmatic approach to the role.

The Transition of Leadership

Justice Sanjiv Khanna succeeded Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, whose tenure was marked by landmark judgments and legal reforms. His appointment as CJI was officially confirmed by the Government of India under clause (2) of Article 124 of the Constitution. Justice Chandrachud’s profile was shifted to the list of former Chief Justices on the Supreme Court’s website immediately following Justice Khanna’s oath.

Legal Legacy and Family Background

Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s legal journey is steeped in a legacy of judicial excellence. He comes from a family of esteemed legal professionals, with his father, Justice Dev Raj Khanna, having served on the Delhi High Court bench, and his uncle, Justice H.R. Khanna, renowned for his dissenting opinion in the ADM Jabalpur case during the Emergency, which challenged the suspension of fundamental rights. His uncle also played a pivotal role in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case, which established the Basic Structure Doctrine of the Constitution.

Career Milestones and Landmark Rulings

Justice Khanna’s tenure on the Supreme Court, beginning in January 2019, has been marked by participation in significant cases that have shaped the legal landscape of India:

1. Article 370 and Jammu & Kashmir: Justice Khanna was a crucial member of the bench that upheld the repeal of Article 370, a monumental decision that ended the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and integrated it more closely with the Indian Union. This judgment was a landmark in India’s constitutional history and has had widespread implications for the country’s federal structure and governance.

2. Electoral Bonds Scheme: Justice Khanna also contributed to the bench that declared the electoral bonds scheme unconstitutional, addressing concerns over transparency in political funding and the influence of anonymous donations on electoral processes. The judgment highlighted the need for accountability in democratic funding mechanisms, setting a precedent for transparency in political contributions.

3. Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs): In a ruling that affirmed the security and reliability of India’s electoral infrastructure, Justice Khanna rejected calls to revert to paper ballots, upholding the use of electronic voting machines. His decision underscored the importance of maintaining technologically advanced systems to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of elections in the world’s largest democracy.

4. Temporary Release of Arvind Kejriwal: In a humanitarian gesture, Justice Khanna was part of a bench that granted temporary release to former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, allowing him to receive medical treatment. This decision demonstrated Justice Khanna’s balanced approach, prioritizing individual rights while upholding the rule of law.

Career Path and Professional Growth

Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s journey to the Supreme Court began in Delhi’s district and high courts, where he served as a third-generation lawyer. His commitment to public service was evident in his role as standing counsel (Civil) for the National Capital Territory of Delhi in 2004, following his work as senior standing counsel for the Income Tax Department. His extensive experience in civil and constitutional matters has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of India’s legal system.

Upholding Democratic Values

Justice Khanna’s career reflects a steadfast dedication to democratic principles and constitutional values. His judgments have consistently emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and individual freedoms, reinforcing the judiciary’s role as a pillar of democracy. His participation in landmark cases that define fundamental rights and electoral integrity has cemented his reputation as a defender of democratic norms.

Anticipated Legacy

Although Justice Khanna’s tenure as Chief Justice will be brief, his contributions are expected to leave a lasting legacy. His rulings on pivotal issues have shaped public discourse on matters of national significance. As the Chief Justice of India, Justice Khanna’s experience, deep understanding of constitutional law, and commitment to justice will guide the Supreme Court in addressing pressing legal challenges, including those related to human rights, democratic governance, and federal integrity.

Conclusion

Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s appointment as the 51st Chief Justice of India signifies a new chapter in the country’s judiciary. His decisions and leadership reflect a commitment to upholding constitutional values and protecting citizens’ rights. Despite his short tenure, Justice Khanna’s extensive judicial experience and contributions to the legal landscape promise a meaningful impact on the Supreme Court and on India’s legal heritage.

For those seeking comprehensive legal guidance on constitutional law, civil rights, or landmark cases, Innerwork Advisors offers expert legal services with deep insights into India’s judicial system and legal complexities. Our team is committed to providing clients with unparalleled representation and counsel on high-stakes legal matters.

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