Justice Sanjiv Khanna Sworn in as 51st Chief Justice of India
Justice Sanjiv Khanna was officially sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Monday, November 11, 2024, succeeding Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, who retired on November 10. Justice Khanna, who has a distinguished record of delivering landmark judgments in the Supreme Court, is set to serve until May 13, 2025.
Known for his integrity and commitment to justice, Justice Khanna was a key figure in high-profile rulings, including judgments on electronic voting machines (EVMs), electoral bonds, and the abrogation of Article 370. His decisions reflect a commitment to judicial integrity, fair election practices, and national security. Among these, Justice Khanna’s ruling upholding the use of EVMs in elections is notable, as it dismissed concerns over manipulation, affirming the security and reliability of the devices in preserving democratic processes.
Justice Khanna’s legal journey is rooted in a lineage of judicial service. He hails from a prominent Delhi-based family and is the nephew of Justice H.R. Khanna, who made headlines for his 1976 dissent in the ADM Jabalpur case during the Emergency. This bold dissent against the suspension of fundamental rights is remembered as a cornerstone for judicial independence in India. Justice H.R. Khanna also contributed to the landmark Kesavananda Bharati judgment, which laid down the basic structure doctrine, a doctrine that remains foundational in Indian constitutional law.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s career began with his enrollment as an advocate in 1983, practicing initially in Delhi’s Tis Hazari Courts before moving to the Delhi High Court, where he served as a senior standing counsel for the Income Tax Department. His work as an advocate and later as an additional public prosecutor earned him wide respect within legal circles. He was elevated to the position of Supreme Court judge in January 2019 and quickly became known for his fair yet firm approach to judicial matters.
In addition to his role on the bench, Justice Khanna served as the executive chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), working to promote legal awareness and aid for the underprivileged. His tenure in the Supreme Court has been marked by a dedication to ensuring efficient justice delivery, a priority he intends to focus on as Chief Justice.
Justice Khanna’s appointment was formally notified by the Centre on October 24, following a recommendation by Justice Chandrachud on October 16. His assumption of office was warmly welcomed by the judiciary and the legal fraternity, who recognized his commitment to upholding justice in line with constitutional values.
