NEW DELHI: Justice Sanjiv Khanna commenced judicial proceedings Today (November 11, 2024), his first day as Chief Justice of India (CIJ), and thanked lawyers for wishing him well. Justice Khanna was sworn in as the 51st CJI earlier in the day by President Droupadi Murmu at a brief ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi led the well-wishers by expressing hope for a successful tenure for the new CJI. Several other lawyers also conveyed their congratulations and good wishes.

When a bar leader raised a procedural concern about the sequencing of cases, Justice Khanna assured him that it was already under consideration.

Justice Khanna took his oath in English, affirming "in the name of God." Born on May 14, 1960, he will serve as CJI until May 13, 2025, concluding his tenure upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 65. He succeeds Justice D. Y. Chandrachud, who stepped down from the position on Sunday.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by prominent leaders, including Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, and former CJI J. S. Khehar, along with Justice Chandrachud.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna has officially assumed the esteemed position of Chief Justice of India (CJI), taking over from Justice D. Y. Chandrachud, who completed his tenure on November 10, 2024. Justice Khanna now holds the distinction of being the 51st Chief Justice of India, a role he assumed following a formal swearing-in ceremony conducted by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

With this appointment, Justice Khanna’s profile is prominently updated on the Supreme Court's official website, reflecting his status as the new head of India’s judiciary. His appointment marks a continuation of a long-standing judicial legacy in his family, as he is deeply inspired by his late uncle, Justice H. R. Khanna, known for his dedication to upholding individual freedoms and justice during critical moments in India’s history.

Justice Khanna brings to the role a strong commitment to judicial reforms, efficiency in court proceedings, and a focus on addressing procedural issues to enhance the public’s access to justice. During his first day in court, he expressed gratitude to the legal fraternity for their support and good wishes, setting a collaborative tone for his tenure. He is expected to serve as CJI until May 13, 2025, bringing in six months of leadership and legal foresight.

The Supreme Court and legal experts widely recognize Justice Khanna’s contributions to landmark judgments and his clear, people-centered approach to legal interpretation. His tenure is anticipated to focus on expediting case hearings and improving procedural efficiencies across India's judicial system.

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