Centre Notifies Appointment of Justice Sanjiv Khanna as India’s 51st Chief Justice

On October 24, 2024, the President of India appointed Justice Sanjiv Khanna as the 51st Chief Justice of India, effective November 11, 2024, under Article 124(2) of the Indian Constitution. This prestigious appointment was formalized with a warrant signed by the President and an official notification issued by the Department of Justice.

He will assume the role following the retirement of the current Chief Justice, Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud, on November 10, 2024.

Distinguished Career at the Supreme Court

Justice Khanna joined the Supreme Court on January 18, 2019, bringing forth a series of landmark judgments throughout his tenure. His opinions have frequently highlighted essential principles, including the protection of individual liberties, the strengthening of democratic processes, and the respect for personal autonomy. Known for his practical and balanced approach, Justice Khanna emphasizes efficient case management, focusing on timely and effective resolution of disputes.

Justice Khanna has had a significant judicial career, marked by several landmark rulings. Recently, he played a key role in decisions on important constitutional and public interest issues, including the validation of the abrogation of Article 370, which removed Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. He also contributed to striking down the Electoral Bonds scheme, emphasizing the need for transparency in political donations, and authored a notable judgment on the Supreme Court’s authority to grant divorces under Article 142, which expanded legal recourse for irretrievable marital breakdowns

His rulings have often underscored a balance between judicial transparency and independence. In 2019, he delivered a prominent judgment that brought the Chief Justice’s office under the purview of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, advocating for a balance between accountability and judicial autonomy

Notably, Justice Khanna is the nephew of former Supreme Court judge Hans Raj Khanna, remembered for his principled dissent during India’s Emergency period. Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s rulings similarly reflect a commitment to democratic values, balancing judicial independence with public accountability

Leadership in Expanding Legal Access and Training

In addition to his judicial responsibilities, Justice Khanna is also the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). His leadership at NALSA has brought a focus on direct community involvement, enhancing justice accessibility at grassroots levels. Furthermore, Justice Khanna serves on the Governing Council of the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal, where he supports the development and training of judicial officers across India.

Early Judicial Service and Contributions at the Delhi High Court

Justice Khanna’s judicial career began in 2005 as an Additional Judge at the Delhi High Court, where he was later confirmed as a Permanent Judge. During his time on the Delhi High Court, he was instrumental in the operations of several institutions, such as the Delhi Judicial Academy, the Delhi International Arbitration Centre, and the District Court Mediation Centres. These roles enabled him to advocate for innovative approaches in judicial education, mediation, and arbitration.

Extensive Legal Experience Prior to the Bench

Before his judicial appointments, Justice Khanna practiced law extensively, beginning in the district courts at Tis Hazari, Delhi, and expanding his work to the Delhi High Court and several specialized tribunals. His legal practice spanned constitutional law, taxation, arbitration, and commercial litigation. Notably, he served as Senior Standing Counsel for the Income Tax Department for seven years and was appointed Standing Counsel (Civil) for the National Capital Territory of Delhi in 2005. His legal experience also includes roles as an Additional Public Prosecutor and amicus curiae in several criminal matters, demonstrating his commitment to the legal profession and public service.

Retirement and Legacy

Justice Khanna is set to retire on May 13, 2025. His tenure as the 51st Chief Justice of India is expected to reflect his deep commitment to justice, accessible legal remedies, and efficient judicial processes, leaving a lasting impact on India’s legal landscape.

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