Outlining his priorities, CJI Khanna addressed the importance of reducing case backlogs, making litigation more affordable, and simplifying legal procedures. In his address, he reaffirmed the judiciary’s responsibility to safeguard constitutional rights and ensure justice for all.
New Delhi: On Nov 11th: Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, upon taking office, articulated his commitment to fostering an accessible and user-friendly judiciary with a focus on citizens’ needs. He emphasized the judiciary’s role as an independent yet essential pillar of governance.
Outlining his priorities, CJI Khanna addressed the importance of reducing case backlogs, making litigation more affordable, and simplifying legal procedures. In his address, he reaffirmed the judiciary’s responsibility to safeguard constitutional rights and ensure justice for all.
“The framework for delivering justice requires that everyone has a fair chance to succeed, irrespective of their status, wealth, or power, and that judgments are rendered in a just and impartial manner. These are our fundamental principles,” affirmed the Chief Justice.
“The duty assigned to us reinforces our role as protectors of citizens’ rights and resolvers of disputes. It is our constitutional mandate to ensure that all citizens of our nation can easily access justice,” he stated.
The Chief Justice emphasized the importance of targeted reforms in managing criminal cases. He expressed a goal to streamline trials to shorten their duration and make the justice process less burdensome for citizens, setting this as a top priority.
President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office to Justice Khanna as he assumed his role as the 51st Chief Justice of India.
CJI Khanna advocated for a judiciary open to feedback and committed to making judgments understandable for the public. He emphasized promoting mediation and ensuring equal opportunities within the justice system, irrespective of a person’s status or wealth.
Highlighting reforms in criminal case management, he stated his intention to expedite trial processes to ease citizens’ experience with the legal system. CJI Khanna took office following Justice DY Chandrachud’s retirement, with his tenure set to last until May 13, 2025.
Justice Khanna, 64, comes from a family of distinguished jurists. His career includes significant rulings such as affirming the legitimacy of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), deeming the Electoral Bonds scheme unconstitutional, and decisions on Article 370 concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
Born on May 14, 1960, Justice Khanna started his law career in 1983, serving as senior standing counsel for the Income Tax Department and later as a judge in both the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court. His extensive experience in law underscores his dedication to a justice system that is efficient and fair.
