Justice Sanjiv Khanna to Lead Indian Judiciary

Justice Sanjiv Khanna is appointed as the 51st Chief Justice of India, succeeding Justice DY Chandrachud upon his retirement on November 10, 2024. Justice Khanna will officially assume his role on November 11, 2024, and is expected to serve until his retirement in May 2025, marking a brief tenure of just over six months. His appointment follows the constitutional procedure where the President, after consulting with the outgoing Chief Justice, makes the official appointment. Justice Khanna's legacy is tied to his uncle, Justice Hans Raj Khanna, known for his dissenting opinion during India's 1977 Emergency, emphasizing the importance of personal liberty. This transition comes at a time when the judiciary faces significant challenges, including the handling of cases involving controversial laws used against journalists and activists. Justice Khanna's leadership will be pivotal as the Supreme Court navigates these and other complex legal issues.