On Sunday (10th March): Former Supreme Court Justice AM Khanwilkar, was sworn in as the Chairperson of Lokpal, India’s anti-corruption authority. The ceremony highlights the nation’s commitment to fighting corruption and emphasizes Lokpal’s role in ensuring transparency and accountability in government. Khanwilkar’s judicial expertise is poised to lead Lokpal in combating corruption across public service sectors.
NEW DELHI: On Sunday (10th March), The Former Supreme Court Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar adminstered oath as the chairperson of the Lokpal, by President Draupadi Murmu, during a ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, according to officials.
READ ALSO: PM Modi to Lead Crucial Meeting for Selection of Two Election Commissioners on March 15
Justice Khanwilkar, who is 66 years old, has a distinguished history. He served on the Supreme Court from May 13, 2016, until his retirement on July 29, 2022.
Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar is a prominent figure in the Indian judiciary, known for his contributions as a judge in the Supreme Court of India. Born on July 30, 1957, in Pune, Maharashtra, he has had a distinguished career in law and the judiciary. Before his appointment to the Supreme Court,
Justice Khanwilkar completed his education in law from the University of Bombay (now Mumbai), a prominent educational institution in India. He began his legal career in 1982, enrolling as an advocate and practicing in the Bombay High Court. Over the years, he developed a specialization in civil, criminal, and constitutional law, appearing in a number of significant cases.
He was appointed as a judge of the Bombay High Court on March 29, 2000. Justice Khanwilkar’s judicial approach often reflected a balanced consideration of the letter and spirit of the law, emphasizing justice, equity, and good conscience.
In April 2013, Justice Khanwilkar was elevated to the position of Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, further showcasing his capability and leadership in the judiciary. His tenure in Himachal Pradesh was relatively brief, as he was subsequently transferred to the Madhya Pradesh High Court as its Chief Justice in November 2013.
On May 13, 2016, Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar was elevated to the Supreme Court of India, a testament to his expertise, judicial wisdom, and the respect he commands in the legal community. Throughout his tenure at the Supreme Court, he has been involved in several significant and high-profile cases, contributing to the shaping of Indian law in various domains, including environmental law, constitutional law, and human rights.
Justice (retired) Khanwilkar was involved in numerous constitution benches of the apex court that issued significant judgments.
In a Landmark Judgement, on September 2018, where the top court deemed Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which criminalized consensual gay sex, as “irrational, indefensible, and manifestly arbitrary.”
This new role for Justice Khanwilkar comes after the Lokpal Chairperson’s position was vacant for nearly two years since the retirement of the previous chairperson, Pinaki Chandra Ghose, on May 27, 2022. Justice Khanwilkar’s appointment is seen as a boost to the Lokpal’s work against corruption.
The Lokpal plays a critical role in investigating and prosecuting corruption cases involving government officials. With Justice Khanwilkar’s experience and skills, he is expected to enhance the Lokpal’s work and support transparent governance in India.
READ ALSO: Court Praises CM Yogi, Cites Community Appeasement as Cause for Riots
As Lokpal’s new leader, Justice Khanwilkar aims to drive the organization forward in its fight against corruption.The ceremony not only starts a new chapter for the Lokpal but also shows India’s commitment to eliminating corruption in government.
FOLLOW US FOR MORE LEGAL UPDATES ON YOUTUBE
