[EXCLUSIVE] The Legacy Of Justice Continues || Meet India's 51st Chief Justice, Justice Sanjiv Khanna

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Justice Sanjiv Khanna, appointed as India’s 51st Chief Justice effective November 11, 2024, brings an extensive background in constitutional, commercial, and environmental law. Known for notable judgements on electoral transparency and Article 370, he has a strong commitment to judicial transparency and individual rights. His leadership is expected to enhance judicial reforms and accountability within India’s legal system.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna, a highly esteemed judge of the Supreme Court of India, has been appointed the 51st Chief Justice of India, effective November 11, 2024. His journey, from a background deeply rooted in the legal system to the Supreme Court, showcases a commitment to upholding the rule of law across a range of crucial legal areas. Justice Khanna’s tenure as Chief Justice will see him succeeding the current Chief Justice, D.Y. Chandrachud, following his retirement.

This article delves into Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s early life, career milestones, key judgements, and his impact on the Indian judiciary as he steps into the role of Chief Justice of India.

Who is Justice Sanjiv Khanna?

Early Life and Background

Justice Sanjiv Khanna was born on May 14, 1960, and grew up with a strong connection to the legal community. His father, Justice Dev Raj Khanna, served as a judge on the Delhi High Court, and his mother, Saroj Khanna, worked as a Hindi lecturer. Justice Khanna’s early exposure to law shaped his career, driving him to pursue legal studies and a life of judicial service. He completed his schooling at Delhi’s Modern School in 1977, later graduating from St. Stephen’s College in 1980, and eventually earning a law degree from Delhi University’s Campus Law Centre.

Justice Khanna’s journey in the legal field officially began in 1983 when he enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi. He began practicing at the district courts at Tis Hazari before moving on to the Delhi High Court. Over the years, he specialized in constitutional law, taxation, arbitration, and environmental law.

Career Milestones

Justice Khanna’s career trajectory includes significant achievements that led to his eventual elevation to the Supreme Court:

June 24, 2005: Appointed an additional judge of the Delhi High Court, he became a permanent judge in 2006.
January 18, 2019: Elevated to the Supreme Court of India, where he authored notable judgments across diverse legal areas.
November 11, 2024: Scheduled to take his oath as the 51st Chief Justice of India, succeeding CJI D.Y. Chandrachud.

Justice Khanna’s extensive experience has made him a respected figure in the judiciary, known for his thoughtful approach and commitment to justice.

Notable Judgements by Justice Sanjiv Khanna

Since his elevation to the Supreme Court, Justice Khanna has presided over several landmark cases, showcasing his expertise in constitutional and commercial law, among other areas:

Electoral Reforms: In Association for Democratic Reforms v Election Commission of India (2024), Justice Khanna led a bench that rejected a plea for 100% verification of Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips, upholding the Election Commission’s safeguards and affirming the commitment to free and fair elections.
Electoral Bonds Transparency: Justice Khanna was a part of the bench that declared the electoral bond scheme unconstitutional, underscoring the need for transparency in political funding.
Abrogation of Article 370: His concurring opinion in the 2023 ruling on Article 370 upheld the abrogation, noting that it aligned with India’s federal structure.

Divorce Powers Under Article 142: In Shilpa Sailesh v Varun Sreenivasan, Justice Khanna expanded the Supreme Court’s powers under Article 142 to grant divorce based on the “irretrievable breakdown of marriage,” highlighting the Court’s role in ensuring justice in complex marital disputes.
Right to Life and Liberty: Granting interim bail to former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Justice Khanna emphasized the importance of the right to life and liberty, especially in cases involving prolonged detention without trial.
RTI Judgement: In CPIO, Supreme Court v Subhash Chandra Agarwal (2019), Justice Khanna addressed whether the Chief Justice’s Office should fall under the RTI’s scope, affirming that judicial independence and transparency can coexist.

Justice Khanna’s judgments reveal his firm stance on upholding constitutional values, individual rights, and transparency within the justice system.

Areas of Expertise

Justice Khanna’s legal expertise spans multiple areas, reflecting his extensive knowledge and adaptability:

Constitutional Law: He has presided over complex cases involving India’s constitutional structure, including landmark rulings on Article 370 and electoral reforms.
Commercial and Arbitration Law: Justice Khanna has contributed to India’s commercial law development, often ruling on contractual disputes and arbitration cases.
Taxation and Company Law: His experience as Senior Standing Counsel for the Income Tax Department has strengthened his proficiency in tax and corporate law.

Environmental Law: Justice Khanna has addressed issues concerning pollution and environmental regulations, contributing to the development of environmental jurisprudence.
Medical Negligence and Consumer Law: His experience with consumer forums has enabled him to handle medical negligence cases, advocating for accountability in the healthcare sector.
Criminal Law: Serving as an Additional Public Prosecutor for Delhi, he engaged in criminal law, shaping his understanding of criminal justice procedures.

These areas of expertise have equipped Justice Khanna with a well-rounded perspective, enabling him to address India’s pressing legal issues effectively.

A Legacy in the Judiciary: Appointment as the 51st Chief Justice of India

The transition in the Chief Justice role marks a new chapter for the Indian judiciary. Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s appointment as Chief Justice of India on November 11, 2024, signifies a commitment to judicial independence, transparency, and progressive reforms. His appointment follows a formal recommendation by CJI D.Y. Chandrachud, backed by the Union Government.

Union Law Minister Arun Ram Meghwal announced the appointment on social media, stating, “In exercise of the power conferred by the Constitution of India, Hon’ble President, after consultation with Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, is pleased to appoint Shri Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Judge of the Supreme Court of India as Chief Justice of India with effect from 11th November, 2024.”

Justice Khanna’s tenure as CJI will last until May 13, 2025, marking a period of significant judicial oversight. His prior roles, including Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority and leadership within the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, position him to lead the judiciary with a focus on legal access and accountability.

Conclusion: Justice Khanna’s Vision for the Judiciary

Justice Khanna’s upcoming role as the Chief Justice is anticipated to bring a new focus on judicial transparency, accessibility, and respect for constitutional rights. His judgments emphasize an unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the rule of law. As he steps into the highest judicial role, his background and experience position him to address pressing challenges in India’s legal system.

Justice Khanna’s vision as Chief Justice will likely encompass judicial reforms, enhanced transparency, and the safeguarding of individual rights. His influence on India’s legal landscape reflects a deep dedication to justice and a legacy that resonates with the evolving needs of Indian society.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s journey from Delhi’s legal circles to the Supreme Court has been marked by a dedication to upholding justice in its many forms. His appointment as Chief Justice of India heralds a promising chapter for India’s judiciary.

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