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CJI Chandrachud Recommends Justice Sanjiv Khanna as His Successor
Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has formally recommended Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the second-most senior judge of the Supreme Court, as his successor. In a communication to the Union government, CJI Chandrachud stated that he would be demitting office on November 10, 2024, and proposed Justice Khanna to take over the role of Chief Justice of India.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna to Become 51st CJI
Upon approval from the government, Justice Khanna will become the 51st Chief Justice of India. He is expected to serve a tenure of six months, concluding on May 13, 2025, just before his retirement. This recommendation follows the established convention where the outgoing CJI nominates the second-most senior judge as the next Chief Justice, which the government typically endorses.
Justice Chandrachud assumed the role of Chief Justice of India on November 9, 2022. As per Indian judicial regulations, Supreme Court judges retire at the age of 65.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s Judicial Career
Born on May 14, 1960, Justice Sanjiv Khanna began his legal career in 1983 when he enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of Delhi. He initially practiced at the district courts in the Tis Hazari complex and later at the Delhi High Court and various tribunals. He was elevated as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court in 2005 and became a permanent judge in 2006.
In January 2019, Justice Khanna was elevated to the Supreme Court of India, marking a significant milestone in his judicial career. His upcoming appointment as the Chief Justice of India is seen as a continuation of his long-standing contribution to India’s legal system.
Justice Khanna’s tenure as CJI will play a crucial role in shaping key judicial decisions during his six-month term, as India prepares for critical changes in its judicial and governance landscape.
