In a significant development for the Indian judiciary, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud has officially recommended the appointment of Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the Supreme Court's most senior judge, as his successor. This announcement comes as CJI Chandrachud prepares to retire on November 10, 2024, concluding a two-year tenure that began with his oath of office on December 17, 2022. Following the formal request from the central government, CJI Chandrachud acted in accordance with the Memorandum of Procedure, which governs the appointment of judges in India.

CJI DY Chandrachud's Tenure

CJI Chandrachud's term has been marked by his commitment to justice and his impactful judicial decisions. Upon taking office, he paid homage to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi located in the Supreme Court premises, emphasizing the values of justice and equity. His father, YV Chandrachud, holds the distinction of being the longest-serving Chief Justice in Indian history, having served from February 22, 1978, to July 11, 1985. This familial legacy adds another layer of significance to CJI Chandrachud's tenure.

Who is Justice Sanjiv Khanna?

Justice Sanjiv Khanna is poised to assume office as Chief Justice of India, serving from November 10, 2024, to May 13, 2025. Having been appointed to the Supreme Court in January 2019, he stands as the seniormost judge following CJI Chandrachud. His appointment was initially controversial as he surpassed 33 senior judges in terms of age and experience. Nevertheless, these concerns dissipated within months as he proved his mettle on the bench.

Justice Khanna is also notable for being the nephew of Justice Hans Raj Khanna, a revered figure who resigned during the Emergency in India to protest against the government’s actions. Justice Khanna's legal background reflects a rich heritage of judicial integrity and commitment to justice.

Legal Expertise Spanning Two Decades

Justice Khanna boasts an impressive legal career spanning over two decades. Before his elevation to the Supreme Court, he served as a judge in the Delhi High Court for 14 years, where he built a reputation for his expertise in various fields of law, particularly in taxation and commercial law. Throughout his career, he has authored numerous critical judgments that have contributed significantly to the evolution of Indian law.

Born on May 14, 1960, Justice Khanna obtained his law degree from Delhi University and began his legal practice in 1983. He started in the district courts of Delhi and gradually advanced to the Delhi High Court and various tribunals, where he dealt with issues ranging from constitutional law and arbitration to direct taxes, company law, land laws, and environmental law. His broad range of expertise positions him well to lead the Supreme Court into the future.

Conclusion

As the Indian judiciary stands on the cusp of a significant transition, the recommendation of Justice Sanjiv Khanna by CJI DY Chandrachud marks a pivotal moment. With the retirement of one of the country's most prominent legal figures, the appointment of Justice Khanna heralds the continuation of a legacy of judicial excellence and integrity. As legal experts and the public await the formalities surrounding this transition, Justice Khanna's extensive experience and commitment to justice will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Supreme Court of India.

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