Justice Sanjiv Khanna: India's 51st Chief Justice Sworn In

Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the Supreme Court's senior judge, will assume the role of India's 51st Chief Justice on Monday. Outgoing Chief Justice DY Chandrachud's tenure concludes as Justice Khanna begins a six-month term. Appointed by President Droupadi Murmu, Khanna boasts extensive legal experience across multiple domains.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna is set to be sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India in a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday. President Droupadi Murmu will administer the oath at 10am, marking the beginning of Justice Khanna's six-month tenure in the country's highest judicial office.

With the retirement of outgoing Chief Justice Dhananjay Yashwant Chandrachud on Sunday, Justice Khanna's appointment was confirmed by a formal notification from the Government of India, effective November 11, 2024. The Ministry of Law and Justice announced this development under Article 124 of the Indian Constitution, reaffirming Khanna's elevation to a pivotal role in the judiciary.

Justice Khanna, born on May 14, 1960, began his illustrious legal career in 1983, joining the Delhi Bar Council as an advocate. His legal expertise spans constitutional law, taxation, arbitration, commercial law, and environmental law. He previously served as senior standing counsel for the Income Tax Department, representing Delhi. As Justice Chandrachud delivered an emotional farewell speech, he reflected on his journey and the privilege of serving those in need through the Supreme Court.

(With inputs from agencies.)