Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Monday, succeeding Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, who retired on November 10, 2024. The oath was administered by President Droupadi Murmu during a ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
The event was attended by key figures including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud, marking a momentous occasion for India’s judiciary.
Justice Khanna’s appointment follows the recommendation of Justice Chandrachud, who had recommended him as his successor on October 17. The appointment was officially notified by the government on October 24. Justice Khanna’s tenure as CJI will last until May 13, 2025.
In his farewell address, Justice Chandrachud expressed confidence in Justice Khanna’s leadership, describing him as “dignified, stable, and deeply committed to justice.” The formal transition was reflected on the Supreme Court’s website, where Justice Khanna’s profile was posted as CJI, and Justice Chandrachud’s profile was moved to the list of former CJIs.
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Despite his short tenure, Justice Khanna has opted not to move into the official CJI bungalow at 5, Krishna Menon Marg. Following the swearing-in, Justice Khanna proceeded to the Supreme Court to preside over the day’s proceedings, hearing 47 cases alongside his colleague, Justice Sanjay Kumar.
Justice Khanna’s appointment marks a new chapter in India’s judicial leadership as he prepares to guide the Supreme Court until his retirement in May 2025.
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