Justice Sanjiv Khanna takes charge as India’s 51st chief justice: A new chapter for the judiciary

Justice Sanjiv Khanna took office as the 51st Chief Justice of India, succeeding Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. In a ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath, marking the beginning of Justice Khanna’s six-month term as the nation’s highest judicial authority. As he steps into this pivotal role, Justice Khanna brings an extensive record of significant judgments that have shaped the legal landscape and reflected his commitment to transparency, accountability and fundamental rights.

Justice Khanna’s career has been defined by landmark decisions that addressed some of the nation’s most challenging issues and his judgments have often reinforced the role of the judiciary as a guardian of constitutional rights. In one of his notable rulings in 2019, he affirmed that the Right to Information (RTI) Act applies to the Chief Justice’s office, promoting greater transparency within the judiciary itself. This decision underscored his belief that the judiciary, like all branches of government, must be accountable to the public.

Justice Khanna has also shown a strong stance on regulating hate speech in the public domain. His 2020 judgment in the case of Amish Devgan v. Union of India highlighted the judiciary’s responsibility in managing speech that could incite harm, a pressing concern in the digital age where inflammatory speech can spread quickly. This ruling highlighted Justice Khanna’s understanding of the balance between free expression and public safety, a balance that is vital in a diverse society like India.

Another significant instance of Justice Khanna’s independent judgment came in 2021, when he dissented from the majority decision on the Central Vista redevelopment project. He argued that procedural requirements had not been fully met, exemplifying his attention to due process and the rights of all stakeholders, even in projects of national importance. His voice in this decision reminded many of the importance of thorough judicial review, especially when dealing with projects that reshape public spaces.

Justice Khanna’s tenure has also included several politically sensitive cases involving prominent leaders. Notably, in the Delhi liquor policy case, his bench reviewed bail applications for Aam Aadmi Party leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia. Though bail was ultimately denied to Sisodia, Justice Khanna’s team ordered an expedited trial, emphasizing the need for timely justice. Later, in a groundbreaking move, his bench granted Kejriwal interim bail for election campaigning, marking a rare judicial intervention that acknowledged the unique circumstances of political duties.

As Chief Justice, Justice Khanna is expected to maintain a focus on justice, transparency and inclusivity. Former Chief Justice Chandrachud, who retired on November 8, expressed confidence in Justice Khanna’s leadership during his farewell remarks, describing his successor as “dignified, stableband deeply committed to justice”. This endorsement reflects the trust placed in Justice Khanna by his peers and colleagues.

Though his term will be relatively brief, concluding in May 2025, Justice Khanna’s impact is likely to be substantial. With pressing issues like electoral bonds, EVM-VVPAT verification and ongoing cases related to Article 370, his tenure could bring further advancements in judicial oversight and reform.

In a legal career marked by bold decisions and a commitment to core constitutional principles, Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s tenure as Chief Justice of India will continue to focus on upholding the integrity and independence of the judiciary. As he takes on the role, India’s legal community and citizens alike will watch closely to see how his leadership shapes the nation’s justice system.