51st Chief Justice of India: Justice Sanjiv Khanna

Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI) on November 13, 2024. President Draupadi Murmu administered the oath in a

 Justice Sanjiv Khanna: The 51st Chief Justice of India

Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI) on November 13, 2024. President Draupadi Murmu administered the oath in a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, attended by prominent dignitaries such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. He succeeded Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and will serve as CJI until May 2025.

Who is the 51st chief justice of India in 2024?

The 51st Chief Justice of India in 2024 is Justice Sanjiv Khanna. He was sworn in on November 13, 2024, succeeding Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. Justice Khanna will serve as the Chief Justice until May 2025. Known for his commitment to constitutional values and transparency, Justice Khanna has delivered significant rulings on matters like the electoral bond scheme and electronic voting machines. His appointment continues a distinguished legacy in India's judiciary.

Early Life and Career of Justice Sanjiv Khanna

Background and Education
Justice Sanjiv Khanna hails from a distinguished legal family. His uncle, Justice H.R. Khanna, is celebrated for his landmark dissenting judgment in the ADM Jabalpur case, which defended individual rights during the Emergency. Sanjiv Khanna pursued law at Delhi University, laying the foundation for his legal journey.

Legal Career

Justice Khanna began his practice in 1983 at the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court of India. Over the years, he built a reputation for expertise in constitutional, civil, and corporate law. His dedication and legal acumen led to his appointment as a judge in the Delhi High Court in 2005.

Elevation to the Supreme Court
In 2019, Justice Khanna was elevated to the Supreme Court of India, bypassing seniority conventions in a decision that sparked discussions in legal circles. Despite the initial controversy, his tenure in the apex court has been marked by significant contributions to jurisprudence and a reputation for fairness and legal clarity.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s journey from a law student at Delhi University to becoming the 51st Chief Justice of India exemplifies a commitment to constitutional values and the rule of law​.

Landmark Judgments by Justice Sanjiv Khanna

Justice Sanjiv Khanna has made substantial contributions to Indian jurisprudence through several significant rulings during his tenure as a Supreme Court judge. Here are some notable judgments:

1. Electoral Bond Scheme
   

   Justice Khanna played a pivotal role in declaring the electoral bond scheme unconstitutional. He emphasized the need for transparency in political funding, pointing out how opacity in the scheme could undermine the democratic process.

2. Validity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)
   In a landmark decision, Justice Khanna upheld the reliability and sanctity of Electronic Voting Machines. This judgment reinforced public trust in India's electoral system, ensuring its integrity and robustness.

3. Article 370 and Jammu & Kashmir's Special Status
   As part of the Constitutional bench deliberating on the abrogation of Article 370, Justice Khanna addressed complex legal questions on federalism, autonomy, and constitutional amendments. His opinions contributed significantly to the nuanced discussions on the matter.

4. Corporate Governance and Environmental Laws
   Justice Khanna delivered key rulings related to corporate governance, upholding accountability and adherence to environmental laws, signaling the judiciary's stance on balancing economic development with sustainability.

These rulings underline his dedication to constitutional principles, transparency, and fairness, hallmarks of his judicial career.

Vision and Legacy

Justice Khanna aims to prioritize the efficiency and accessibility of the judiciary during his tenure. Known for his integrity and deep understanding of the law, he continues to uphold the rich legacy of his family while shaping India's justice system for the future​.