Justice Sanjiv Khanna Appointed as 51st Chief Justice of India

New Delhi : Justice Sanjiv Khanna has been appointed as the 51st Chief Justice of India, following approval from President Droupadi Murmu after consultation with Chief Justice DY Chandrachud. As per the announcement made by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Justice Khanna will officially assume office on November 11, succeeding Justice Chandrachud, who retires a day prior. Justice Khanna, currently the second senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, will serve as CJI until his retirement on May 13, 2025.

Justice Khanna’s judicial journey began with his elevation to the Supreme Court on January 18, 2019. In his tenure, he has authored significant rulings across various fields, contributing to constitutional law, civil liberties, and social justice. His judgments emphasize the protection of individual rights, the importance of democratic engagement, and a progressive interpretation of personal autonomy. Known for his meticulous legal reasoning and a practical approach to dispute resolution, Justice Khanna has played a critical role in several Constitution Benches, where his insights have shaped pivotal judicial precedents.

Justice Khanna’s appointment aligns with the Supreme Court’s tradition of elevating senior-most judges to the Chief Justice position. He is regarded for a balanced judicial philosophy, combining careful statutory interpretation with an empathy for social impact. His jurisprudence often centers on the intersection of individual rights and state powers, advocating for a liberal interpretation of fundamental rights. In landmark cases, he has underscored the importance of safeguarding personal liberty, especially in cases involving preventive detention, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in state actions. Justice Khanna’s rulings also reflect a commitment to expediting judicial processes and maximizing judicial resources, essential for an effective justice delivery system.

The Supreme Court has been under the leadership of CJI DY Chandrachud since November 2022, during which judicial transparency and digital accessibility in court functions were notably prioritized. Justice Khanna is expected to continue and enhance these reforms, especially with his reputation for maximizing judicial efficacy. His approach is expected to shape the court’s future docket, focusing on constitutional challenges and reinforcing citizens’ rights in India’s rapidly evolving legal landscape.

The transition marks a significant moment for the judiciary, with Justice Khanna’s tenure likely to uphold the apex court’s role as a guardian of constitutional values and public welfare. His leadership is anticipated to emphasize constitutional integrity, judicial efficiency, and increased engagement with complex issues surrounding democracy, individual freedoms, and economic development.