Justice Sanjiv Khanna took the oath of office as the 51st Chief Justice of India in a prestigious ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday. Administered by President Droupadi Murmu, the oath-taking was attended by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, and numerous other dignitaries. Justice Khanna pledged, "to uphold the Constitution of India without fear, favor, affection, or ill will."
The event, underscoring the importance of India’s highest judicial position, saw attendance from prominent leaders and legal luminaries. The presence of retired Chief Justices and esteemed legal personalities reflected the judiciary’s tradition and continuity in supporting India’s constitutional framework.
Justice Khanna, appointed to the Supreme Court in 2019, has contributed to transformative judgments. Notably, he was involved in the ruling that upheld the abrogation of Article 370, removing Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, and a significant verdict on electoral bonds. His role in shaping modern Indian jurisprudence has earned him recognition for upholding the values of constitutional justice.
Justice Khanna succeeds Justice DY Chandrachud, who bid farewell after a distinguished tenure. In a heartfelt address, Justice Chandrachud expressed pride in his journey and achievements, emphasizing his dedication to serving the nation. His tenure saw critical legal advancements and the continuation of progressive judicial policies.
With a tenure set for six months, Justice Khanna is expected to lead the Supreme Court on vital issues of national significance. Appointed under Article 124 of the Constitution, his tenure officially began on November 11, 2024, aligning with the government’s recent notification.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna's appointment as the 51st Chief Justice of India marks a new chapter in India's judiciary, characterized by his commitment to upholding constitutional values and dedication to safeguarding democratic principles. His impactful judgments on critical issues, like the abrogation of Article 370 and electoral transparency, signal his proactive stance on issues with profound societal implications.
As he steps into this leadership role, the judiciary and the nation look forward to his stewardship on crucial national matters that will shape India’s legal landscape, continuing a legacy of judicial integrity and progress. Justice Khanna’s six-month tenure, though short, is anticipated to be influential, paving the way for advancements in regulatory frameworks and fortifying public trust in the judiciary's role as a pillar of democracy.