Justice Sanjiv Khanna appointed 51st Chief Justice.
Known for his balanced approach and deep understanding of the law, Justice Khanna will serve a brief six-month tenure, set to conclude on May 13, 2025, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 65. His tenure is expected to emphasize judicial reforms, efficiency in case handling, and the advancement of technology within the judiciary. This transition marks a significant moment for India’s Supreme Court, with Justice Khanna’s legacy anticipated to build upon progressive judicial principles.
His appointment was formalized on October 24 after President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Justice Chandrachud’s tenure, which concluded on Friday, was marked by significant decisions and reforms in the judiciary. His farewell, attended by judges, lawyers, and staff of the Supreme Court and high courts, underscored his impact on the judicial landscape and acknowledged his contributions to modernizing and streamlining court processes.
His career reflects a commitment to protecting democratic principles and upholding the constitutional values that guide India’s legal system. Over the years, Justice Khanna has contributed to numerous important rulings, including the controversial electoral bonds scheme and the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. His opinions in these cases have been marked by clarity, depth, and an unwavering adherence to constitutional mandates, establishing him as a voice of reason and integrity in the judiciary.
The decision to scrap the electoral bonds scheme, a ruling in which Justice Khanna played a central role, is a testament to his commitment to transparency and fairness in political funding. The electoral bonds scheme, introduced by the government in 2018, allowed anonymous donations to political parties, raising concerns about unchecked influence on electoral processes. Justice Khanna’s stance on the issue highlights his dedication to ensuring accountability and reducing the potential for corruption in politics. His ruling sent a strong message that democratic integrity must be protected from undue external influences, reinforcing the judiciary’s role as a guardian of the electoral process.
Another significant decision Justice Khanna contributed to was upholding the abrogation of Article 370. This article, which had provided Jammu and Kashmir with special autonomy, was repealed by the government in 2019, sparking widespread debate and legal scrutiny. Justice Khanna’s participation in this case demonstrated his ability to approach complex and politically sensitive matters with judicial independence and careful consideration. By supporting the abrogation of Article 370, he affirmed the constitutional authority of the government in reconfiguring state autonomy, a ruling that continues to have lasting implications
Justice Khanna has also upheld the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in elections, a decision that underscored the importance of modernizing electoral processes to ensure efficiency and accuracy. Despite skepticism and calls for a return to paper ballots, Justice Khanna’s ruling reinforced the legitimacy of EVMs and their role in strengthening electoral transparency. This decision aligns with his commitment to technological advancements and his belief in the power of modernization to enhance institutional credibility. By supporting EVMs, Justice Khanna has positioned the judiciary as an advocate for technological integration in democratic processes, a stance that reflects his forward-looking approach.
In addition to these landmark judgments, Justice Khanna’s role in granting interim bail to Arvind Kejriwal, the then Chief Minister of Delhi and leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, in the excise policy scam cases, highlights his balanced approach to justice. The decision, which allowed Kejriwal to campaign in the Lok Sabha elections, showcased Justice Khanna’s nuanced understanding of the interplay between judicial processes and political dynamics. This ruling underscored his commitment to maintaining a fair and just legal system, while also recognizing the practical realities faced by public figures in high-stakes legal battles.
Justice Khanna’s tenure as CJI, though expected to be relatively brief, is anticipated to leave a lasting impact on the judiciary. His focus on judicial reforms, efficiency, and upholding constitutional values aligns with the evolving needs of India’s legal system. His appointment as CJI comes at a time when the judiciary is facing increasing calls for transparency, timely case resolutions, and improved access to justice for all citizens. With his extensive experience and commitment to justice, Justice Khanna is well-positioned to address these challenges and further the progress initiated by his predecessors.
Justice Khanna’s legacy, built on a foundation of landmark judgments and a deep respect for constitutional principles, reflects the best of the Indian judiciary. As the 51st Chief Justice of India, he embodies a blend of judicial acumen and progressive values that resonate with the needs of a modern, dynamic society. His tenure is likely to be marked by efforts to streamline judicial processes, enhance technological integration, and uphold the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
In summary, Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s appointment as the Chief Justice of India marks a new chapter for the Supreme Court. His tenure is expected to reinforce the judiciary’s role as a pillar of democracy, and his judicial philosophy promises to strengthen the institution’s dedication to upholding justice, transparency, and constitutional integrity. As he steps into this pivotal role, Justice Khanna’s impact on India’s legal landscape is likely to be felt long after his retirement on May 13, 2025, setting a standard for future generations of judges to follow.