Today marks a pivotal moment in India’s judiciary as Justice Sanjiv Khanna is sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Droupadi Murmu will administer the oath, marking the commencement of Justice Khanna’s six-month tenure as the head of India’s judicial system.
Known for his vast experience and significant contributions to Indian jurisprudence, Justice Sanjiv Khanna brings a wealth of expertise in constitutional law, arbitration, environmental law, and commercial law. This article explores his journey, notable judgments, and the legacy he steps into as he succeeds Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, who retired on Sunday.
Who is Justice Sanjiv Khanna
Justice Sanjiv Khanna comes from a distinguished legal background, which has undoubtedly shaped his professional path. Born into a family with strong judicial ties, his father, Justice Dev Raj Khanna, served on the Delhi High Court, while his uncle, Justice H R Khanna, held an eminent position on the Supreme Court of India. His family’s legacy laid the foundation for his values and commitment to the law.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s career in law began in 1983, after he enrolled as an advocate with the Delhi Bar Council. Over the years, he built a reputation for his expertise and dedication across various legal fields. His career took a significant leap in 2005 when he was appointed as a judge of the Delhi High Court.
His work at the High Court brought him recognition, leading to his elevation to the Supreme Court of India in 2019. Since then, Justice Sanjiv Khanna has handled cases involving diverse fields such as taxation, arbitration, and commercial disputes, further solidifying his reputation as a balanced and insightful jurist.
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Beyond his role as a judge, Justice Sanjiv Khanna held an influential position as the senior standing counsel for the Income Tax Department, where he represented the National Capital Territory of Delhi. His tenure in this capacity equipped him with substantial knowledge in the area of taxation law, further broadening his perspective on complex commercial matters.
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Known for his sharp analytical skills, Justice Khanna is widely respected in the legal community for his adherence to the principles of justice and his methodical approach to resolving complex cases.
Landmark Judgments and Contributions to Indian Jurisprudence
Justice Sanjiv Khanna has played a pivotal role in shaping Indian legal jurisprudence, with landmark judgments that address critical issues within the nation. His decisions reflect his commitment to transparency, fairness, and adherence to democratic principles.
One of Justice Khanna’s prominent contributions was in the case involving the sanctity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). As a defender of democratic values, Justice Sanjiv Khanna upheld the credibility of EVMs as a reliable tool for electoral processes, reinforcing the citizens’ trust in the country’s electoral integrity.
His support for transparent political processes is further evidenced in his recent ruling on the electoral bonds scheme. A bench he led declared this scheme unconstitutional, highlighting the need for transparency in political funding.
This judgment aimed to address the opacity that existed in the financial contributions to political parties, which, Justice Khanna asserted, was critical for a healthy democracy.
Justice Khanna was also part of the landmark judgment that upheld the constitutional validity of the removal of Article 370, which granted special status to the region of Jammu and Kashmir. This judgment marked a significant moment in Indian constitutional history, as the decision was both legally complex and politically sensitive.
Justice Khanna’s participation in this ruling showcased his legal acumen and his commitment to the interpretation of the Constitution in a rapidly changing socio-political landscape.
Another case that underscored Justice Khanna’s judicial sensitivity was his role in the bench that granted interim bail to Arvind Kejriwal, the then Delhi Chief Minister. The bail allowed Kejriwal to campaign in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
This decision highlighted Justice Khanna’s balanced approach to upholding the rights of individuals while respecting the democratic process. His rulings in cases like these demonstrate his respect for individual liberties and fair representation within the law.
Challenges and Expectations as Chief Justice
As the Chief Justice of India, Justice Khanna will face numerous challenges and responsibilities. With a tenure of only six months, his time in office is relatively short compared to other Chief Justices. Nevertheless, he will have the opportunity to impact significant ongoing issues and lead the judiciary in an era of evolving legal needs.
One of the major challenges he may face is addressing the backlog of cases, which has long been a concern within the Indian judiciary. Speedy justice is essential for the credibility of the legal system, and Justice Khanna’s approach to case management will be crucial in alleviating delays.
Another area of focus during his tenure may be strengthening transparency within the judicial system. Given his previous judgments on issues related to transparency and political funding, Justice Khanna is well-positioned to advocate for reforms that enhance accountability within the judiciary.
With public trust as the foundation of an effective judiciary, Justice Khanna’s efforts toward maintaining transparency could further solidify the legitimacy of the Supreme Court.
Environmental law is another area that may see advancement during his tenure. Justice Khanna’s experience in this field is extensive, and his judgments reflect an awareness of the need for sustainable policies in India.
As the nation grapples with climate change challenges, Justice Khanna’s potential focus on environmental issues could play a vital role in shaping environmentally conscious judicial decisions.
Finally, Justice Khanna’s tenure will be marked by his ability to foster a judiciary that upholds democratic values. His judgments on issues such as the sanctity of electoral processes and political funding transparency indicate his commitment to democratic principles. This dedication is likely to guide his decisions and influence the judiciary’s approach to cases involving constitutional law and governance.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s journey to becoming the 51st Chief Justice of India is a testament to his dedication, integrity, and legal prowess. With a career spanning over four decades, he brings a wealth of experience in various legal fields, along with a reputation for fair and transparent judgments.
His tenure, though short, offers an opportunity to address key issues within the Indian judiciary and leave a lasting impact on the country’s legal landscape. In his own words, Justice Khanna has always emphasized the importance of serving those in need and upholding the rights and freedoms of all citizens.
As he steps into his role as the Chief Justice, his values and vision will guide the Supreme Court toward a future of justice, transparency, and fairness. As he carries forward the legacy of his predecessors, the nation looks forward to his contributions in shaping a more robust and responsive judiciary.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏